Tesla has ramped up work on its long-delayed Roadster. Here's what insiders have seen.

Core Insights - Tesla is preparing to unveil a significant update on the long-awaited Roadster, with intensified efforts observed over the summer [1][9] - This marks the first substantial activity on the Roadster program in over a year, with new designs indicating a shift to a two-seater with butterfly doors [2][3] - The company is estimated to be two to three years away from production, with ongoing design fluidity and recent hiring of engineers for aerodynamic prototypes [3][4] Design and Development - Recent designs for the Roadster show a departure from the original four-seater prototype, which was unveiled in 2017 [2] - The design process remains fluid, and the final product's appearance is still uncertain, as Tesla's design team is known for experimenting with various options [3] - Tesla's design boss indicated that a demo of the Roadster is on track for later in 2025, with a patent granted for an aerodynamic system that could enhance vehicle performance [11][12] Production Timeline and Challenges - The Roadster program faced a pause after layoffs in April 2024, and the program manager left the company in July 2024 [4] - Musk has acknowledged the delays, stating that the Roadster's development must take a backseat to projects with a more significant global impact [4] - Reservation holders have expressed frustration, with some canceling their $50,000 deposits, highlighting the ongoing challenges in meeting customer expectations [4] Future Prospects - Musk has hinted at ambitious features for the next-generation Roadster, including the potential for it to be the most memorable product unveil and the possibility of a flying car [10] - The company is actively working on manufacturing roles related to the Roadster, indicating a commitment to moving forward with the project [11]