Tesla Roadster 2 Reveal Delayed to April Fool's Day

Tesla Announces Roadster Reveal Date

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, announced on Thursday that the production version of the second-generation Roadster supercar will be unveiled on April 1, 2026.

This reveal comes almost nine years following the initial announcement of the project. Musk has a noted history of missed deadlines.

April Fools' Day and "Deniability"

During Tesla’s annual shareholder meeting, Musk explained his choice of April Fools’ Day, stating it provides “some deniability.”

He elaborated that this allows him to claim he was joking should the actual release date be postponed.

Previous Delays and Expectations

The April 2026 reveal itself represents a delay. Just a week prior, Musk indicated on the Joe Rogan podcast his intention to showcase the vehicle by the end of the current year.

He emphasized on Thursday that the final car “will be very different from what was shown previously.”

Thrusters and a Bold Demo

Musk once again hinted at a demonstration that will be “the most exciting, whether it works or not, demo ever of any product.”

This alludes to his ongoing efforts to incorporate SpaceX-built thrusters, potentially enabling the new Roadster to fly.

Production Timeline

Musk anticipates that production of the second-generation Roadster will commence 12 to 18 months after the April 2026 unveiling.

Founders Series Reservation Holders

A shareholder inquired whether customers who preordered the “Founders Series” Roadster would be invited to the reveal event.

These customers secured special versions of the car in 2017 with a $250,000 deposit.

Musk responded affirmatively, stating, “It’s the least we can do for our long-suffering Roadster reservation holders.”

Sam Altman's Reservation Attempt

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, recently attempted to cancel his reservation and initially encountered difficulties in receiving a refund.

Altman's Public Frustration

Altman shared a series of screenshots on X detailing his initial reservation, a refund request for the $50,000 fee, and the subsequent email bounce-back.

He expressed his initial excitement for the vehicle but noted that 7.5 years felt like a considerable wait.

Musk's Response

Musk, who has a history of public disagreements with Altman, responded by stating Altman had omitted a crucial detail.

He claimed the issue was resolved and a refund was issued within 24 hours, characterizing this as consistent with Altman’s behavior.