# Tesla Roadster Nearly Production-Ready

> Tesla's Roadster prototype shows production readiness with key features but legal hurdles for advanced tech.
- Title: Tesla Roadster Nearly Production-Ready · Car and Driver
- Summary: Tesla's Roadster prototype shows production readiness with key features but legal hurdles for advanced tech. Tesla's Roadster prototype is nearly…
- Keywords: tesla, roadster, production-ready, electric sports car, elton musk, 2028, space x, cold-gas thrusters, suction system, cars, Nearly, Car and Driver
- Source: Car and Driver — https://caranddriver.com/news/a74159909/new-tesla-roadster-production-expectations
- Author: Greg S. Fink
- Published: 2026-10-16T17:07:34+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: tesla, roadster, production-ready, electric sports car, elton musk, 2028, space x, cold-gas thrusters, suction system, cars
## Tesla Roadster Prototype
The new Tesla Roadster prototype teases an upcoming production model with production readiness evidence.
## 2028 Production Timeline
Tesla claims the Roadster will enter production in 2028 with possible delays.
## Key Production Features
The Roadster has proper body panels, door latches, airbag space, and a functional infotainment system.
## Advanced Tech Hurdles
SpaceX-supplied thrusters and suction systems may not be street-legal due to legal concerns.

> I'm not sure it's necessarily legal in all jurisdictions
## Powertrain Details
The prototype's battery pack and dual motors produce north of 1340 horsepower.
## Production Readiness
The Roadster's core components are nearly production-ready but street-legal versions may differ.
## 2028 Timeline
Tesla expects the Roadster to be on roads by the end of this decade despite production delays.
## Key takeaway

Tesla's Roadster prototype is nearly production-ready by 2028 but may skip street-legal thrusters and suction systems.