Update (November 6, 2024): ‘Tesla Roadster (2025),’ ‘Tesla Robotaxi (2026),’ and ‘Tesla Robovan (2028)’ updated.
Tesla is synonymous with electric cars, a reputation that has undoubtedly helped it gain more than 6 million buyers. In fact, in 2024, Tesla continues to lead in brand loyalty for automakers in America, S&P Global said on August 8, 2024, with a rate of 67.8 percent for the first half of 2024.
Now, let’s take a look at the future Tesla cars that are expected to be launched in the U.S. by mid-decade. Note that the article is a compilation of information from various sources (official and unofficial), and the timelines are speculative.
Tesla Cybertruck ‘Cyberbeast’ (Late 2024)
Tesla launched the Cybertruck in November 2023 in three variants: Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive, and Cyberbeast, priced at USD 60,990, USD 79,990, and USD 99,990, respectively. Initial deliveries went to pre-order customers, with new orders set for 2024 delivery.
By August 2024, Tesla quietly discontinued the Rear-Wheel Drive variant and raised the prices of the All-Wheel Drive and Cyberbeast models to USD 99,990 and USD 119,990. The company had initially stated that the launch prices were estimates. Alongside this change, the estimated range for the All-Wheel Drive dropped from 340 to 318 miles, and the Cyberbeast from 320 to 301 miles.
The Cyberbeast packs a Triple-Motor AWD system delivering 845 hp and a staggering 10,296 lb-ft of torque. With a 0-60 mph sprint in just 2.6 seconds, 130 mph top speed, and an 11,000-pound towing capacity, it’s raw power with serious capability.
The All-Wheel Drive Cybertruck is currently being delivered, while the Tesla Cyberbeast remains on track for an Oct-Dec 2024 release. Production continues at Tesla’s Giga Texas plant in Austin, Texas.
New Tesla Model Y (Early 2025)
Following the new Model 3 and the Cybertruck, Tesla will refresh the Model Y. A report published on March 1, 2023, by Reuters describes the new Tesla Model Y internally as ‘Tesla Juniper,’ and we’re expecting production of the U.S.-spec units to begin early next year.
Spy shots of test prototypes confirm that the facelifted Tesla Model Y will feature new bumpers, connected headlamps, and fresh wheels. We expect interior changes to include a new steering wheel with scroll and touch-operated buttons, a new touchscreen infotainment system that can be rotated like that of the new Model S and new Model X, new dashboard trim a fully digital instrument cluster, ventilated front seats, a new 17-speaker sound system, an 8-inch rear touchscreen, an ambient lighting system, etc.
According to a reliable source within Tesla, the new Model Y is set to have significant changes in specifications, as reported by Tesla Tech Central. The updates will reportedly include a new battery architecture that enables a higher range of 400 miles (currently, the maximum EPA-est. range is 330 miles). The vehicle’s suspension is expected to be upgraded for better handling of road imperfections, and an upgraded powertrain is also on the horizon.
Tesla Roadster (2025)
The next-gen Tesla Roadster made a surprise debut on November 17, 2017, at Tesla’s Hawthorne facility in California. Originally planned to showcase the Tesla Semi, the event stunned attendees worldwide with the unexpected unveiling of the two-door sports car.
On February 28, 2024, Elon Musk stoked excitement with a series of tweets about the next-gen Roadster. He revealed, “Tonight, we radically increased the design goals for the new Tesla Roadster.” Referring to the project’s unprecedented nature he added, “There will never be another car like this, if you could even call it a car.”
Musk also mentioned a collaboration between Tesla and SpaceX, with the production design finalized and an unveiling planned for the end of the year. He teased, “I think it has a shot at being the most mind-blowing product demo of all time,” noting that the Roadster’s sub-one-second 0-60 mph acceleration is merely the “least interesting part” of this electric sports car.
During Tesla’s Q3 2024 earnings conference call on October 23, 2024, Musk said the company is close to freezing the design of the next-gen Roadster. Additionally, he suggested the redesigned model will have the ability to briefly lift itself off the ground and hover, reiterating his previous hints of SpaceX-derived technologies for the car. It’s possible that the Roadster may arrive with well over 1,020 hp and 1,050 lb.-ft. It’s also expected to have a top speed north of 250 mph, and a dedicated platform with all-wheel drive.
The next-gen Tesla Roadster is expected to enter production and go on sale in 2025.
Tesla Robotaxi (2026)
The Tesla Robotaxi is a two-door coupe designed and engineered only for driverless operation. The new electric car borrows cues from the Tesla Cybertruck and flaunts two dihedral doors. It has a big trunk behind the seats, accessible through a large liftgate, but there’s no word on the inclusion of a frunk.
Inside, the Tesla Robotaxi features a minimalist design with a slim dashboard and simplistic door panels. The exclusion of a steering wheel and accelerator and brake pedals frees up a lot of space on the dashboard. There are only two seats, both noticeably wide and reminiscent of old American recliners. A huge freestanding touchscreen is the center-piece of this cozy interior, integrating all the core comfort and entertainment functions.
Tesla has not equipped the Robotaxi with a charging port. The self-driving EV relies on inductive charging to juice up its batteries. The company plans to begin its production in 2026 and should release more details about its specifications closer to the launch.
During the Q2 2024 earnings conference call, Musk said Tesla will allow customers also to make money from the Robotaxi/Cybertaxi, implying the company will sell/lease the new self-driving EV to regular people. Customers will be able to allocate it in Tesla’s fleet program when they don’t need it for personal use, the same way they list their real estate properties on Airbnb. Tesla will charge a commission for this service, though, taking a share of their revenue.
Tesla Robovan (2028)
The Tesla Robovan is a much bigger self-driving EV, designed for traveling in a big group of people or transporting a large load of goods. Inspired by art deco trains of the 1920s and 30s, the streamlined EV’s design looks like it was pulled off from a science fiction movie. It features sliding doors on the sides and has a trunk at both ends.
The interior of the Tesla Robovan is like a modern living space, featuring a clean and space-focused design. Softly lit mood lighting spread throughout the cabin creates a luxurious vibe and highlights the modern aesthetics of the cabin. Seats with upward sloping lower part for better thigh support and the entirely flat floor contribute to the homely vibe of the interior. There are two large, TV-sized screens at both ends, which would provide passengers entertainment on the go.
Tesla says the passenger version of the Robovan can accommodate up to 20 people and estimates its travel cost to be as low as 5-10 cents per mile. The company has yet to reveal the launch timeline of this model, but we expect 2028 to be the earliest possible year.
Next-gen Tesla Model S (2026)
The Tesla Model S is 12 years old, but its futuristic character and consistent technical upgrades have helped it stay in shape to tackle fast-growing competition in recent years. However, visually, it’s long been in the tooth, so many prospective customers would want to see it in a whole new avatar.
Tesla could already be developing an improved/next-gen Model S secretly, targeting a launch timeframe of 2026 or 2027. It’s safe to assume this high-volume car would be its priority after releasing the compact EV slotted below the Model 3/Model Y.
We’re expecting Tesla to engineer the next-gen Model S (and the next-gen Model X) on a completely new platform and use new batteries that operate at 800 volts or higher, paving the way for remarkable improvements in performance and charging. Additionally, we look forward to enhanced rear seat comfort and features in the new Model S, with specific variants designed to prioritize rear passenger experience.
The first hints of its design and technology could be seen in the next-gen Roadster, which it plans to launch in 2025. Note that Tesla has not confirmed a new Model S.
I got my Master’s in Business Management & Administration and have been an International Automotive News Editor since 2014. I’ve traveled to global motor shows and automotive events, driven various types of vehicles, and focused on hybrid and electric cars in the last 4 years.
