Tesla CEO Elon Musk
Delays Roadster Launch Again
Prospective Buyers Express Frustration
Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO and often a lightning rod for controversy, has built a reputation for bold statements that sometimes come at a cost to shareholders. Yet, his track record of innovative products generally outweighs the fallout, and consumers and investors alike have shown a remarkable tolerance for his unpredictable approach. However, Tesla’s recent news may test even the most loyal followers.
Once again, the highly anticipated release of the second-generation Tesla Roadster, the pioneering electric sports car, faces delays. The original Roadster, launched in 2008, broke ground as the first all-electric sports car, impressing the world with its sleek design and a top speed of 209 km/h (130 mph) when EVs were virtually unheard of. The new model teased at a Tesla event in 2017, was initially slated for a 2020 release, but production has been repeatedly pushed back. This latest delay only deepens the disappointment, especially as many recall Musk’s original delivery estimates with mounting frustration.
The EV That Shocked the World
Never Seen in the Flesh
The first-generation Tesla Roadster was compact, measuring 3,947 mm (155.4 inches) in length, 1,871 mm (73.7 inches) in width, and standing 1,127 mm (44.4 inches) tall. With the second-generation model, Tesla aimed higher, expanding its dimensions to a grand tourer size and promising performance that reignited global interest. Announced specifications boasted acceleration from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in just 1.9 seconds, a top speed exceeding 400 km/h (249 mph), and an impressive range of up to 997 km (620 miles) per charge—truly extraordinary figures.
Initially slated for a 2020 release, the launch date has been repeatedly deferred, now stretching into 2024. Unlike other Tesla models, which have been periodically spotted as prototypes, the Roadster has remained conspicuously absent from public view since its 2017 reveal. This ongoing delay was officially acknowledged at Tesla’s October 23 earnings announcement, leaving fans and prospective buyers waiting yet again for the elusive Roadster’s debut.
Roadster is Just Dessert
What About Investors Who’ve Paid?
Musk apologized to potential customers and investors who have long suffered from questions about the Roadster, saying that the design is approaching completion. Consumers and investors who heard this news could not help but be disappointed because they had already paid a deposit of up to $250,000 to wait for the Tesla Roadster.
During the third-quarter earnings announcement, Musk offered a symbolic explanation for the delayed release of the Roadster, describing it as “the cherry on top of the icing on the cake” rather than a priority. He suggested that the Roadster’s production is a secondary focus compared to projects with broader global impact, likening it to a “dessert.” His comments attracted considerable attention.
$2.7 Billion in Profits
Rocket Thrusters on New Roadster?
Tesla’ss third-quarter revenue exceeded $25.1 billion, up 7.85% from last year. Operating profit also increased 54% to $2.7 billion. Investors who invested in the Roadster have criticized Musk, saying that they earned these profits with their own investments, but he spent all the money on other projects.
On the other hand, there is also a rumor that the launch of the Roadster has been delayed because Musk wants to add flight functions. Musk mentioned that his close colleague and financier Peter Thiel said that there is no flying car. Based on this, there is speculation that he is planning to install SpaceX’s rocket thrusters on the Roadster and that the launch has been delayed because of a hitch in that plan.
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