Tesla Roadster 1.5

Overview

The 2009 Tesla Roadster 1.5 was a true game-changer, the electric rocket that kickstarted the modern EV revolution! Based on the nimble Lotus Elise chassis, it proved electric cars could be seriously quick and desirable. This discontinued pioneer offered blistering acceleration and a then-unheard-of range, carving out a unique niche as a high-performance, zero-emissions sports car. As it was primarily a US-market vehicle and is long discontinued, official new EU pricing isn't available, and used prices vary wildly based on condition and import status. It’s a collector’s gem now!

What's New for 2009?

The '1.5' badge on this 2009 Roadster signified a decent step up from the very first models. Tesla tweaked the formula, rolling out an improved interior with a neater push-button gear selector – much slicker! Under the skin, the power electronics module got an upgrade for better durability, and the motor was made more efficient. They even fiddled with the HVAC system for better cabin comfort, meaning it wasn’t just about raw speed, but a slightly more polished experience for lucky European importers enjoying this specific trim until its production ended in 2009.

Design & Exterior

You can't mistake the 2009 Tesla Roadster 1.5's DNA – it screams Lotus Elise, but with an electric heart! Its compact, targa-topped carbon fibre body measures just 3946 mm long, a sleek 1852 mm wide (excluding mirrors), and a super-low 1127 mm tall. This two-seater roadster looks an absolute pocket rocket, designed for pure driving thrills rather than outright practicality. The '1.5' trim kept the iconic, minimalist sports car aesthetic, making it a head-turner then and now, promising a raw connection to the road.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside the Roadster 1.5, it's a snug, driver-focused affair – think minimalist sports car rather than luxury cruiser. Materials are functional, designed to keep weight down. Passenger space is intimate, as you'd expect from a two-seater. For luggage, you get a modest 150-litre boot in the back; there's no frunk on this model. Tech was basic by today's standards, typically featuring an Alpine head unit for tunes and an essential vehicle info display, but don't expect fancy touchscreens or modern smartphone integration. It’s all about the drive!

Performance & Driving Experience

Hold on tight! The Roadster 1.5, with its single rear-mounted Induction Motor (IM), punches out 185 kW and a chunky 370 Nm of instant torque. This rear-wheel drive setup translates to a grin-inducing 0-100 km/h sprint in just 4.2 seconds – supercar-bothering stuff for its era, with a top speed of 201 km/h! Being featherlight (1305 kg curb weight), the handling is pure go-kart: direct, agile, and incredibly engaging. Regenerative braking helps top up the battery while you’re having fun, making every drive an event.

Range, Battery & Charging

Packing a 50.4 kWh usable battery, Green Cars Compare calculates a real-world range of around 353 kilometres for the Roadster 1.5 – impressive for its day, with an efficiency of 7 km/kWh. For charging, it features a surprisingly potent 16.8 kW on-board AC charger, meaning a full top-up could take around 3 hours. However, it uses a Type 1 (J1772) port, common in North America, so European owners would need an adapter for Type 2 outlets. Standardised DC fast charging wasn't a feature on this 400V architecture early pioneer.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety kit in the 2009 Tesla Roadster 1.5 was pretty basic, reflecting its sports car roots and the era it was born in. Don't expect a Euro NCAP star rating, as it was a low-volume specialist vehicle and official ratings are unavailable. Standard features likely included essentials like anti-lock brakes (ABS) and traction control to keep things pointing the right way. However, the advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) we see today, such as adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist, were simply not part of its electrifyingly raw package.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Back in 2009, Tesla's warranty for the Roadster 1.5 would have been competitive for an early EV, likely a few years for the vehicle and a longer period, perhaps 8 years, for the precious battery pack. Maintenance is generally simpler than combustion cars – no oil changes! – but specialist knowledge for its unique powertrain was key. Being a trailblazer, early Roadsters had some quirks, but many have proven surprisingly resilient, becoming cherished icons. Finding specialist support today is crucial for upkeep of this discontinued model.