Tesla might reveal second-generation Roadster on April Fool's Day
What's the story
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has announced that the production version of the second-generation Roadster is tentatively set to be unveiled on April 1, 2026. The date is especially significant as it falls on April Fool's Day. This comes after a long wait since the prototype was first revealed in 2017 and saw several delays in its production timeline.
CEO remarks
Musk's joke or serious announcement?
Musk said at a recent shareholders meeting that Tesla is "tentatively aiming for April 1" as the reveal date for the road-ready Roadster 2. He added this gives him "some deniability" since he could always say he was just joking. Despite his light-hearted approach, there are still many unanswered questions about the car's design and performance capabilities.
Production details
Production could start in 2027
Musk also said he thinks the second-generation Roadster will go into production 12 to 18 months after its April reveal. If this timeline holds true, it would take nearly a decade for the vehicle to go from prototype stage to production car. He also teased that next year's demo will be "the most exciting, whether it works or not, demo ever of any product."
Tech advancements
Tesla has been accepting reservations since 2017
Musk said the revamped Roadster would have "crazier" tech than all James Bond vehicles combined. This has led to speculation that the second-generation two-seater could even be able to fly. Despite the long wait and lack of development updates, Tesla has been accepting $50,000 reservations for the car since its prototype debut in 2017.