Tesla (TSLA) shares fall as the much-awaited Roadster opener is officially scheduled for October 1

Key highlights

SpaceX facility hints at rocket technology integration
More details are expected to be revealed
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Elon Musk announced that October 1, 2026 will be the official unveiling date for Tesla's next-generation Roadster. This high-performance electric vehicle made its debut as a prototype in 2017 and was originally scheduled to begin production in 2020.

The SpaceX test facility in McGregor, Texas will host the highly anticipated unveiling event. Special edition models may integrate air-conditioned propeller technology developed by SpaceX to achieve superior performance. Tesla shares fell 1.7% in pre-market trading on Monday; analysts maintained the consensus of "moderate buy" with an average price target of $377.08.

After years of delay, Tesla has officially announced the release date for its much-awaited sports car. Elon Musk revealed on Saturday that the company's next-generation Roadster will make its public debut on October 1, nearly a decade after the model's prototype was first shown.

Go for launch pic.twitter.com/Khu03eiZ04

- Tesla (@Tesla) September 12, 2026

The electric car maker shared a mysterious "ready to launch" message on the X platform, prompting Musk to clarify: "The new Tesla Roadster unveiled 10.01." The statement quickly attracted widespread attention from enthusiasts and market observers who had long been patiently waiting for updates since the concept was released in 2017.

Tesla shares fell 1.7% in pre-market trading on Monday after the announcement.

SpaceX facility hints at rocket technology integration

It is reported that the unveiling ceremony will be held at SpaceX's test site in McGregor, Texas. The venue selection sparked widespread discussion about the nature of the presentation.

The focus of many people's expectations is to showcase SpaceX-inspired cool-air thruster technology. Unlike traditional rocket propulsion, the system uses compressed gas to generate short but powerful thrust without burning. The technology could allow vehicles to momentarily float or hover during possible autonomous demonstrations.

A dedicated Roadster variant may be equipped with integrated thrusters designed to enhance acceleration capabilities, braking efficiency and cornering dynamics. Tesla has not announced a determined pricing structure, manufacturing schedule or customer delivery window.

Tesla's originally announced performance specifications were impressive: 0-60 mph acceleration in less than 2 seconds, a top speed of more than 250 mph, and approximately 620 miles of cruising range provided by a 200 kWh battery system.

More details are expected to be revealed

In addition to the propeller system, Tesla is likely to show a version that is closer to production readiness. The expected announcement includes detailed specifications covering acceleration indicators, maximum speed capabilities, cruising range and track performance data.

According to an August report in The Information, Tesla completely redesigned the Roadster, turning it into a carbon fiber supercar, abandoning early plans to use Model S Plaid components.

The unveiling coincides with a period of intensive launch of Tesla's product lineup. The company has scheduled the launch of the Semi truck on September 24, and European delivery is expected to take place in 2027. In addition, Tesla recently launched a limited self-driving Cybercab operation in Austin.

Tesla's first-generation Roadster was produced between 2008 and 2012, with approximately 2,450 units sold. Built on a modified Lotus Elise platform, the original model proved that electric vehicles can achieve practical endurance and eye-catching performance indicators.

Since the 2017 concept release, the second-generation model has experienced at least eight separate delays.

Analyst consensus positions TSLA as a "moderate buy", reflecting 11 buy ratings, 12 hold recommendations, and three sell views over the past three months. The consensus target price is US$377.08, indicating that potential upside is about 3% based on current trading levels.