The original Tesla Roadster first hit the streets in 2008, two years after its prototype was unveiled. It was the car that set the foundation for Tesla’s philosophy: producing electric vehicles with strong performance and cutting-edge technology. Built on a modified Lotus Elise chassis and powered by cylindrical lithium-ion batteries, the first-generation Roadster was limited to just 2,450 units, with production ending between 2011 and 2012 to make way for the Tesla Model S.
Fast forward to 2017, when Elon Musk unveiled a new Tesla Roadster, promising production and deliveries by 2020. Six years later, not a single customer has received the car—despite the fact that it can still be reserved on Tesla’s website for a hefty €43,000 deposit. This has kept hope alive that, despite repeated delays, the electric supercar will eventually reach buyers. If not, the situation would be far from ideal for Tesla.
On Tesla’s website, basic specifications for the new Roadster remain available: 0-100 km/h in 2.1 seconds, a top speed exceeding 400 km/h, and an electric range of over 1,000 kilometers. Photos of both the exterior and interior are also displayed.
Now, Tesla enthusiasts who placed a Roadster reservation have another reason to stay optimistic. The company has filed a trademark application for the name “Roadster” with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The first design—a stylized version of the name—was registered in February of this year. In April, Tesla added the logo: a diamond-shaped shield with four vertical lines at the bottom and the word “Roadster” at the top.
Although Elon Musk has been occupied with other ventures in recent years, these trademark filings suggest that the new Tesla Roadster hasn’t been forgotten. The latest moves before the USPTO indicate that Musk’s recent statements about the long-awaited electric sports car may finally come to fruition. Better late than never.
