Tesla Roadster (original)

Overview

First production EV with lithium-ion cells. Built on a modified Lotus Elise chassis. Demonstrated that an electric car could go fast, far, and look good — the proof-of-concept that earned Tesla the credibility (and capital) to attempt the Model S.

Photos

Original Tesla Roadster at the Petersen Automotive Museum, Los Angeles

Built on a modified Lotus Elise chassis, 244 mi range on a 53 kWh lithium-ion pack

Musk's personal Roadster launched on Falcon Heavy's maiden flight in 2018 — now in heliocentric orbit

Next-gen Roadster prototype, unveiled November 2017 alongside the Semi — still 'in development' as of 2026

Promised specs: 1.9s 0-60, 250 mph top speed, 620 mi range — all still unverified

Specifications