Tesla Roadster Reservation Deposit Set at RMB 332,000 in China as Production Targets 2028

Tesla has opened reservations for the Performance version of its second-generation Roadster in China, with a reservation deposit of RMB 332,000, according to information released on October 16, 2026. The two-seat electric sports car features active aerodynamics and a multi-mode suction system. Tesla has yet to announce the vehicle’s final retail price and plans to begin production in 2028.

The latest announcement has drawn attention not only because of the substantial reservation deposit, but also because of a demonstration in which the Roadster briefly lifted off the ground. First unveiled in 2017, the long-delayed sports car has returned to the spotlight as Tesla moves toward its latest production target.

RMB 332,000 Deposit Does Not Represent the Final Vehicle Price

Tesla’s China website has opened reservations for the Roadster Performance, requiring a deposit of RMB 332,000. However, the reservation payment should not be confused with the car’s final purchase price or a completed vehicle order.

As of October 16, Tesla has not disclosed the model’s final retail price or a complete delivery schedule. Prospective buyers should review the official reservation agreement carefully, paying particular attention to payment requirements, refund conditions, configuration changes and the steps required to complete a purchase.

Reservation arrangements may also differ between markets. Buyers should rely on the terms published by Tesla for their respective regions rather than assuming that international reservation policies are identical.

Aerial Demonstration Puts Special Propulsion Technology in the Spotlight

The latest Roadster presentation featured a series of unusual maneuvers, including driving along a specially designed ramp, briefly lifting off the ground, rotating in midair and landing. Reports described the demonstration as involving an underbody fan system and cold-gas thrusters associated with SpaceX technology.

The performance has helped earn the vehicle the nickname “flying sports car.” Nevertheless, a brief, controlled aerial maneuver does not establish that the Roadster can sustain flight like an aircraft or helicopter. More information is needed about the technology’s operating principles, practical limitations, safety requirements and availability in production vehicles.

Potential buyers should also consider whether these functions will be restricted by local laws, approved operating environments or other regulatory requirements. Tesla has indicated that the vehicle’s availability in a particular region will remain subject to applicable laws and regulations.

Two-Seat Design and High-Performance Ambitions

The Performance version features a two-seat layout, active aerodynamic systems and a multi-mode suction system. Tesla has previously promoted ambitious acceleration and top-speed targets for the Roadster, but advertised targets should be distinguished from independently verified production-car performance.

Battery output, tire grip, vehicle weight, testing conditions and regulatory requirements can all affect the final specifications. The vehicle’s actual capabilities will become clearer once Tesla releases its final technical details and production models undergo independent testing.

Production Targeted for 2028, but Delivery Timing Remains Uncertain

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has said that production of the second-generation Roadster is planned to begin in 2028. The project, however, has experienced multiple delays since its initial unveiling in 2017, making the latest timeline an important point of scrutiny.

Moving from a public demonstration to commercial deliveries requires engineering validation, supply-chain preparation, manufacturing readiness and regulatory certification. A production target is not the same as a guaranteed delivery date, and the final schedule will depend on the project’s development and manufacturing progress.

Buyers Should Examine Reservation Terms Carefully

The RMB 332,000 reservation deposit has made the Roadster one of the more expensive electric sports cars to reserve in China. For prospective buyers, however, the key considerations extend beyond performance claims and unusual technology. Final pricing, refund conditions, delivery timing, specification changes and the legal use of special propulsion features all matter.

Tesla’s decision to reopen the Roadster’s reservation process in China marks a new step for the long-awaited project. Until the company confirms the final price, production specifications and delivery arrangements, consumers should evaluate the reservation carefully and rely on official contractual terms rather than assuming that a reservation guarantees delivery.