Tesla Roadster production to begin in 2023

Production of the anticipated Tesla Roadster will be pushed back to 2023, meaning it will now be launched six years after its initial reveal on November 17, 2017. 

The delay was confirmed by founder Elon Musk at Tesla’s annual shareholder meeting, where he attributed the delay to the effects of the Covid pandemic and issues with parts supply. 

The Roadster, which was set to return in its second generation, was previously delayed due to the development of the firm’s new tri-motor powertrain and advanced battery technology, which are set to make their debuts in new Tesla saloon and SUV models. Musk added that Tesla’s Cybertruck would also go into production in 2023. “Most likely what we’ll see is Cybertruck production in the next year and then reach volume production in 2023,” he said.

“Hopefully by then we can be producing the Semi [truck] and the new Roadster in 2023 as well. We should be through our severe supply chain shortages in 2023. I’m optimistic that will be the case.”

The Roadster was due to touch down in 2020, with production later moved back to once the firm had finished construction of its Berlin gigafactory, which is now completed. 

Prices are still expected to start from $250,000 (about Rs 1.85 crore) for the first 1000 models, which will be sold as Founders Editions. Subsequent units will be priced from $200,000 (Rs 1.48 crore), with reservations available for £38,000 (Rs 34 lakh).

Tesla claims the Roadster will offer a 0-60mph/100kph time of 1.9sec with 737lb ft of torque, similar to that claimed for the Model S Plaid. The model is also touted to reach 100mph/160kph in 4.2sec and achieve a quarter-mile sprint in 8.9sec. 

The Roadster isn’t the first Tesla model to be struck with delays. The Model 3 saloon suffered production setbacks and the firm’s Semi lorry, now also due to go into production in 2023, didn't hit roads as planned last year.