Tesla Roadster 2.0

Overview

The 2010 Tesla Roadster "2" trim is a true electric pioneer, a featherweight sports car that showed the world EVs could be seriously quick and desirable! Based on the Lotus Elise, this two-seater rocket was all about raw driving fun. With production having ceased in 2010, it's a sought-after modern classic. Expect to find used examples like this "2" trim, originally assembled in the USA, fetching around $85,000, a testament to its groundbreaking status in the US market. It’s the car that truly kickstarted Tesla's journey.

What's New for 2010?

For 2010, the Roadster, particularly this "2" trim which aligns with the "2.0" update, got some welcome refinements over the very first models. Tesla tweaked the interior, offering a more premium feel with a new center console design and improved cabin materials. They also cranked up the HVAC system for better all-weather comfort – a must for US drivers. Plus, a neat push-button gear selector replaced the previous lever, tidying up the cockpit, and there were subtle exterior styling updates, keeping it fresh on the scene.

Design & Exterior

This thing is pure sports car! The 2010 Tesla Roadster "2" screams agility with its Lotus-derived, low-slung targa-top design. It’s incredibly compact, measuring just 155.4 inches long, 72.9 inches wide (excluding mirrors), and a mere 44.4 inches high, making it a real head-turner. The "2" trim featured distinct forged alloy wheels and that iconic, minimalist EV look. It's lightweight at 2727 lbs, purposeful, and undeniably cool, a carbon-fiber-bodied statement that still looks fantastic today.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside the Roadster "2", it’s a focused, no-frills sports car experience. Think snug racing-style seats for two and a cockpit that’s all about the drive. Material quality saw an upgrade for the 2.0-era models, but it's still charmingly raw. Tech was basic by today's standards; you might find an optional small infotainment screen, but don't expect modern connectivity like Apple CarPlay. Cargo-wise, there's a surprisingly usable 5.3 cubic feet trunk behind the motor – enough for a weekend getaway. No frunk here, just pure EV performance focus.

Performance & Driving Experience

Hold on tight! The Roadster "2" trim is a proper pocket rocket, zapping from 0-60 mph in a blistering 3.9 seconds thanks to its punchy 215 kW rear-wheel-drive setup. That single Induction Motor (IM) churns out an instant 280 lb-ft of torque, pinning you to your seat. Being so light, it handles like a go-kart with direct steering and a firm, communicative ride. Braking is strong, and the regenerative braking helps claw back some juice while you’re having fun carving corners. Top speed is a respectable 125 mph.

Range, Battery & Charging

The Roadster "2" packs a 50.4 kWh usable battery (53 kWh nominal), delivering a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of 232 miles – pretty impressive for its era! It’s efficient too, achieving around 4.6 mi/kWh. For charging, it uses a Type 1 (J1772) port common in the USA and features a robust 16.8 kW on-board AC charger, meaning a full top-up from empty takes around 3-4 hours. Its 400V architecture doesn't support modern DC fast charging capabilities found on newer EVs.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety in the 2010 Roadster "2" was more about its agile handling and strong, Lotus-engineered chassis than an extensive list of electronic aids. Official NHTSA or Euro NCAP crash test ratings are not available, which is common for such low-volume, specialized vehicles. Standard safety features included essentials like anti-lock brakes (ABS) and traction control. It's a pure driver's car, where driver engagement and awareness are key components of the safety experience, offering a very connected feel to the road.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

When new, the 2010 Tesla Roadster "2" likely came with a basic vehicle warranty typical for the period, possibly around 3 years or 36,000 miles, with similar coverage for the battery. As a discontinued model from 2010, these original manufacturer warranties have long since expired. Maintenance for these pioneering EVs is specialized, often relying on a few dedicated shops or the Tesla network. Reliability is characteristic of an early-generation, groundbreaking vehicle, with a passionate owner community providing valuable support and insights.