Tesla Roadster Specs Reveal Over 1 MW of Power and 10-Minute Charging
The bespoke EV features a 500 kW input rate and a real-world range of 310-320 miles, with production slated for 2028.
Tesla’s engineering and design leadership has released detailed specifications for the upcoming Roadster, confirming output figures exceeding 1 megawatt and a charging architecture capable of replenishing the battery in roughly ten minutes.
What Happened
In a video interview with TopGear, Chief Engineer Lars Moravy and Design Boss Franz von Holzhausen outlined the technical foundation of the new Roadster. The vehicle is built on a bespoke chassis combining aluminum and carbon fiber, featuring steer-by-wire and brake-by-wire systems with carbon ceramic rotors. It utilizes a high-voltage battery pack rated between 800 and 1,000 volts, employing nickel-based lithium-ion cells specifically developed for this model. While Tesla did not disclose the total energy capacity, they stated the real-world range is expected to be between 310 and 320 miles.
The powertrain consists of two electric motors driving the rear wheels, enabling torque vectoring. Four variants are planned, with the lightest model weighing approximately 3,700 pounds (1,700 kg). The base version delivers over 1,073 horsepower (800+ kW) and 885 lb-ft of torque, while higher-performance versions claim over 1,341 hp (1,000 kW) and 1,032 lb-ft of torque. The top speed is currently rated at 214 mph, with a target of 330 mph. The battery supports a maximum input of 500 kW from a V4 Supercharger, allowing a 15% to 85% charge in about 10 minutes. A 200-liter air tank is integrated into the trunk of the Thrust version to provide compressed air for acceleration, reducing 0-60 mph times to under one second.
Why It Matters
These specifications address the uncertainty that followed the initial debut, where concrete numbers were absent. The confirmation of a 500 kW input rate sets a new benchmark for Tesla’s charging infrastructure, effectively doubling the speed of current Supercharger capabilities. For enthusiasts and potential buyers, the shift from the 2017 concept to a production-ready platform with steer-by-wire and brake-by-wire technology signals a move toward advanced automotive engineering rather than just raw power. The decision to produce the vehicle in Texas with a 2028 timeline provides a clearer roadmap for the market, moving away from the long-standing delays associated with the original announcement.
The Bottom Line
Tesla has confirmed the Roadster will enter production in Texas in 2028, featuring over 1 MW of power in its top configurations, a 500 kW charging capability, and a real-world range of 310-320 miles. The vehicle will be rear-wheel drive only, with a base weight of roughly 3,700 pounds.
