Tesla Roadster 1.5

Overview

The 2009 Tesla Roadster 1.5 was a pioneering all-electric sports car that truly kickstarted the modern EV revolution. Based on the Lotus Elise chassis, this two-seater targa-top offered a thrilling, raw driving experience combined with zero tailpipe emissions. As a discontinued model, it’s a unique piece of automotive history, now available on the used market for around $74,995. The 1.5 trim brought welcome refinements over the initial release, making it a more polished, yet still electrifying, proposition. It was a game-changer, proving electric cars could be seriously fun.

What's New for 2009?

The 2009 model year, specifically the "1.5" update, brought several key improvements over the original Roadster. Tesla focused on enhancing the cabin with higher-quality materials, a redesigned center console, and an improved HVAC system for better all-weather comfort. A new push-button gear selector replaced the previous lever, giving the interior a more modern feel. Optional forged wheels became available, and there were tweaks to the sound system and interior trim, making this version feel a bit more premium than its predecessor. These changes aimed to refine the groundbreaking EV sports car experience.

Design & Exterior

The 2009 Tesla Roadster 1.5 is an absolute head-turner, borrowing its compact, athletic proportions from the Lotus Elise. Its low-slung, purposeful stance screams performance, with dimensions of 155.4 inches in length, 72.9 inches in width (excluding mirrors), and a mere 44.4 inches in height. The lightweight body panels, many crafted from carbon fiber, contribute to its agility. The removable targa top offers open-air motoring, enhancing the driving thrill. The 1.5 trim maintained this iconic look, with subtle refinements and wheel options differentiating it slightly.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside, the Roadster 1.5 is a snug, driver-focused cockpit. While not luxurious by today's standards, the 1.5 update brought improved materials and a more refined finish to the spartan layout. It’s strictly a two-seater, so passenger space is intimate. Tech was basic for its era, typically featuring an aftermarket-style stereo head unit; don't expect modern touchscreens or smartphone integration. For luggage, you get a modest 5.3 cubic feet in the trunk, located behind the motor. Unfortunately, there's no frunk for extra bits and bobs.

Performance & Driving Experience

This is where the Roadster 1.5 truly shines! With its rear-wheel-drive layout powered by a single AC Induction Motor (IM), it delivers a punchy 248 hp (185 kW) and a hefty 273 lb-ft of instant torque. That’s enough to catapult it from 0-60 mph in a blistering 4 seconds – properly quick even now! The driving experience is pure and unfiltered, like a go-kart for the road, offering incredible agility and responsiveness. The ride is firm, communicating every nuance of the road, and regenerative braking helps recapture energy.

Range, Battery & Charging

The Roadster 1.5 packs a 50.4 kWh usable battery, delivering a Green Cars Compare estimated real-world range of around 219 miles, which was revolutionary for its time. It boasts an efficiency of 4.35 mi/kWh. For charging, it features a Type 1 (J1772) compatible port for AC charging, primarily via an adapter for its proprietary inlet. The standard 16.8 kW on-board charger could theoretically juice it up in about 3 hours from empty, which was quite rapid for AC. However, it lacks modern DC fast-charging capabilities.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

For a low-volume sports car from 2009, safety features were relatively basic. The Tesla Roadster 1.5 was not officially rated by the NHTSA or Euro NCAP. Standard safety equipment included essentials like anti-lock brakes (ABS) and traction control, crucial for managing its instant torque. Airbags were, of course, fitted. However, don't expect any of the advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist that are common on today's EVs; this was a pure, unassisted driving machine.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

When new, the 2009 Tesla Roadster 1.5 typically came with a basic vehicle warranty, often around 3 years/36,000 miles or 4 years/50,000 miles. The critical lithium-ion battery pack usually had separate coverage, likely in the region of 8 years or 100,000 miles, though specific degradation guarantees weren't as common then. As a discontinued, used vehicle, any original warranties have long expired. Maintenance for early Teslas can be specialized, focusing on battery health and the electric powertrain, which generally has fewer moving parts than a combustion engine.