Tesla has delayed the unveiling of its next generation Roadster once again, with CEO Elon Musk now indicating that the long anticipated electric sports car may be revealed later in April rather than on the previously suggested April 1 date.
Musk said on the social platform X that the company will “hopefully” unveil the vehicle next month, adding that the event will “probably” take place in late April. The updated timeline marks another shift for a project that has faced multiple delays since its original announcement, according to Business Insider.
The Roadster was first introduced by Tesla in 2017, with initial plans targeting a production timeline around 2020. Since then, the vehicle has become one of the company’s most delayed and closely watched projects.
Earlier guidance from Musk had already fluctuated. In late 2025, he suggested the vehicle could debut before the end of the year, followed by a tentative April 1 demonstration date mentioned during Tesla’s shareholder meeting. That date was presented with some uncertainty, with Musk noting it offered flexibility given its association with April Fools’ Day.
The Roadster has remained available for reservation since its initial reveal. Customers were required to place significant deposits, including $50,000 for standard reservations and up to $250,000 for a limited “Founder’s Series” version.
Some early reservation holders have expressed frustration over the extended delays. Reports indicate that high profile customers, including Sam Altman and Marques Brownlee, have canceled or reconsidered their reservations amid uncertainty around delivery timelines.
Despite the delays, Tesla continues to position the Roadster as a flagship performance vehicle. The company’s published specifications indicate a projected acceleration from zero to 60 miles per hour in approximately 1.9 seconds, a driving range of around 620 miles, and seating capacity for four passengers.
Musk has also stated that the vehicle may incorporate technology developed in collaboration with SpaceX, including the potential use of thruster systems to enhance performance characteristics.
Recent developments suggest that work on the project is ongoing. Tesla has reportedly expanded hiring efforts related to the Roadster program and filed new trademark applications tied to the model earlier in 2026.
The Roadster is expected to serve as Tesla’s top tier vehicle as the company gradually shifts focus away from its older premium models, including the Model S and Model X. However, Musk has previously described the car as a lower priority compared to Tesla’s broader initiatives, including autonomous driving systems, robotics, and commercial vehicle production.
The company is currently working to scale several major programs, including its Semi truck, Cybercab autonomous vehicle, and the Optimus humanoid robot. These projects are seen as central to Tesla’s long term strategy.
The Roadster’s development also reflects Tesla’s origins as a performance focused electric vehicle manufacturer. The company’s first production model, released in 2008, carried the same name and was based on a modified sports car platform adapted for electric propulsion.
While a specific unveiling date has not been confirmed, Musk’s latest comments indicate that a public demonstration may occur within weeks, provided development milestones are met.
