With the Tesla Roadster (2008) marked the beginning of a new era in electromobility. As the first series model of the then still young company Tesla Motors, the Roadster proved that electric vehicles could not only be efficient, but also powerful and suitable for everyday use. It was produced from 2008 to 2012 and a total of around 2,450 sold worldwide. Today, it is considered a collector's item and an important milestone in the history of Tesla and electromobility.
Technical specifications: Innovation meets performance
The Tesla Roadster was not only a technical masterpiece, it also set new standards for the automotive industry. The most important performance data at a glance:
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Drive: 3-phase alternating current induction motor
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Power: 225 kW (302 hp)
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Torque: 370 Nm
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Acceleration: 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds
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Top speed: 201 km/h
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Range: 394 km (according to NEDC cycle)
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Battery capacity: 56 kWh lithium-ion battery
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Charging times:
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Domestic socket: approx. 7 hours
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Wallbox: approx. 4 hours 30 minutes
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Quick charge: approx. 1 hour 30 minutes to 80%
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Design and driving experience
The Tesla Roadster was based on the Lotus Elise and adopted many of the design features of this legendary sports car. The body consisted of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP)to save weight and increase stability at the same time. The design was compact, aerodynamic and optimized for maximum performance on the road.
The driving experience was unique thanks to the low center of gravity and direct steering. The almost silent acceleration and high torque provided an incomparable driving experience. At the same time Tesla, that electric cars can be a real alternative to petrol sports cars.
Charging infrastructure and energy efficiency
The Tesla Roadster was the first to use a lithium-ion battery with over 6,800 individual cells, which enabled a range of just under 400 km. The average power consumption was 12.7 kWh per 100 kmwhich made it one of the most efficient vehicles of its time.
Although the Roadster was not yet equipped with today's Tesla superchargers today's Superchargers, owners were able to charge it with a special High Power Wall Connector which offered a charging capacity of up to 16.8 kW.
Production and sales figures
Tesla produced the Roadster from 2008 to 2012 in collaboration with Lotus in England, while final assembly took place in California. Around 2,450 units were sold worldwidewith most vehicles being delivered in the USA, Europe and Asia.
Interestingly, the Roadster was promoted through a referral program in which Tesla-customers could receive discounts on future purchases or even a free Roadster through referrals.
Further developments and special editions
Tesla launched various further developments of the Roadster over the years, including
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Roadster 2.0 (2009): Improved electronics, lighter battery and more efficient cooling system
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Roadster 2.5 (2010): New front and rear design, better interior insulation, optional infotainment system
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Roadster 3.0 (2015): Upgrade kit with new battery (70 kWh), improved aerodynamics and increased range to over 640 km
The legacy of the Tesla Roadster
The Tesla Roadster was more than just an electric car - it was a technological milestonethat paved the way for later models like the Model S and the Model 3 paved the way. It proved that electric cars are not only environmentally friendly, but also fast, exciting and suitable for everyday use. and suitable for everyday use.
Today the Tesla Roadster (2008) is a coveted collector's itemwhose value is steadily increasing. With the announcement of a new Roadster model for 2025, the legacy of the original remains alive and continues to inspire the future of electric mobility.
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