The Men Spending $50,000 Just to Reserve a Tesla Roadster
Some Tesla enthusiasts are putting down large deposits to reserve the long-delayed second-generation Roadster, encouraged by a dramatic demonstration and hopes that the car will be both exciting and valuable. Their commitment comes despite years of delays, uncertainty over final prices and Tesla’s broader focus on robotics, artificial intelligence and autonomous driving.
Tesla first announced the Roadster in 2017, taking $50,000 reservations against planned 2020 deliveries; production is now expected in 2028, with delivery dates unclear. The base model requires a $50,000 deposit, the Thrust version $250,000, and the Rocket flying-car version is invite-only and not street legal. EV dealer Alex Lawrence plans to use his reservation for marketing, while tech founder Travis Cook upgraded his long-standing reservation to Thrust, though he may reconsider if the final price approaches $500,000.
In short
- Tesla Roadster production is now expected in 2028.
- Deposits range from $50,000 to $250,000.
- Buyers are betting on a car with uncertain prices and timing.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A large deposit can be a considered bet for enthusiasts who value early access to an unusually ambitious electric sports car and believe its performance or rarity may make it desirable. For a dealer, a reservation may also have practical marketing value, while the staged payment and ability to reconsider the final price can make the commitment worthwhile to some buyers.
The case against
The reservations require substantial sums for a car whose delivery has been delayed for years and whose final price and specifications remain uncertain. Buyers may prefer to keep their money available until production plans are firmer, especially as Tesla’s priorities have shifted and the promised delivery date is still unclear.