5,500 PSI: The Pressure Gauge in Tesla’s New Roadster Cockpit

Tesla has provided the public with the most comprehensive look yet at the interior technology of its next generation Roadster. On Friday afternoon, the company released a short video on X that walks through the vehicle's central touchscreen. The clip is accompanied by a caption explaining that the interface was designed around the pilot, drawing inspiration from the cockpits of modern fighter jets. This release offers a clear preview of how drivers will interact with the car's advanced systems before they even take to the track.

The video begins with a black screen featuring red graphics and a three dimensional wireframe of the vehicle. This digital model sits next to the car's distinctive squared off yoke. By tapping various parts of the model, users can access specific controls. These include adjustments for the rear wing, allowing for low drag or high downforce positions. There is also a dedicated charging page with a limit bar and a small music player. A row of tabs along the bottom of the screen provides quick access to Home, Vehicle, Listen, Climate, and Navigate functions.

A significant portion of the demonstration focuses on Track Mode. In this view, the dashboard displays a live map of the circuit along with a list of session lap times. Drivers can monitor critical mechanical data, including brake and motor temperatures. The interface also provides detailed readouts for pressure and temperature for each individual tire. A setup page allows for deep customization, where users can select from Auto, Low Drag, High Downforce, or Custom aero modes. They can also adjust aero balance and brake balance or switch off stability and traction control for maximum performance.

At the bottom of the Track Mode screen, a status bar displays the text Thruster alongside a reading of 5,500 PSI. Next to this is a Boost Ready indicator. This gauge directly links the software to the hardware Tesla showcased near Waco, Texas, earlier this month on October 15. The Thrust and Rocket versions of the car utilize cold gas thrusters powered by carbon overwrapped pressure vessels. Tesla claims these high end models can accelerate from zero to sixty miles per hour in under 0.9 seconds and under 0.59 seconds, respectively.

The interface reflects the distinct engineering approaches of the different Roadster configurations. The base Performance model relies on a fan and ground sealing system for grip, which matches the active wing and suction settings visible on the screen. This layout marks a significant departure from the rest of Tesla's current lineup. Instead of centering the map on the home page, the Roadster places a representation of the car itself at the center. The official product page also lists two smaller forward displays to accompany the main touchscreen.

It remains to be seen if any of this track telemetry will eventually make its way to other models, such as the Model 3 Performance. Tesla has not yet confirmed such plans. The interface could still undergo changes before deliveries begin. Elon Musk stated at the recent event that production is scheduled to start in 2028. It is worth noting that Tesla says the flagship Rocket version is not yet approved for public road use.

For those interested in securing one of these vehicles, reservations are currently open with a payment of $50,000. The Thrust model is listed as a limited release, while the Rocket version is available only by invitation. The first opportunity for the public to view the car in person will arrive this weekend. According to Sawyer Merritt, the Roadster will be on display in the lobby of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles from October 24 to 27.