The world holds its breath every time Tesla unveils a new product as the brand is known for its pioneering and breathtaking technological advances, but the world will have to wait a while longer until the highly anticipated Tesla Roadster is released. Originally set for a 2020 release, the pandemic and subsequent supply chain issues have delayed the release until 2023.
Supply Chain Issues
Back in May 2020, Elon Musk admitted that the pandemic had thrown Tesla “for a loop” but that the Roadster should be available in 2022, but now there have been further setbacks due to supply chain issues with an emphasis on chip shortages. Musk commented on the latest delay and problems it is causing on Twitter:
“2021 has been the year of super crazy supply chain shortages, so it wouldn’t matter if we had 17 new products, as none would ship. Assuming 2022 is not mega drama, new Roadster should ship in 2023.”
The Roadster in Numbers
Customers are entitled to a refund until they sign a purchase agreement and the Roadster is priced at $200,000 with an initial deposit of £5,000. Motorists have been eagerly awaiting the release of the Roadster and it is easy to see why when you look at the breathtaking statistics. The Roadster will boast a top speed of 250 miles an hour with a 0-62 time of just 1.9 seconds and a quarter of a mile in under 9 seconds. It is also capable of travelling more than 620 miles on a single charge thanks to the 200-kilowatt-hour battery pack.
An Industry Issue
It is not just Tesla that is struggling with supply chain issues as Toyota and Ford have both had to slash production volumes as a result of the chip shortage. The resurgence of COVID-19 disrupted the parts supplies and production, which has added to the troubles already caused by the pandemic for car manufacturers over the last 18 months.
Protecting Your Investment
If you have recently bought a Tesla, you will certainly want to do all that you can to protect your investment. One of the best ways to do this is with GAP insurance, which will offer financial protection in the event of a write off by covering the difference between the insurance payout and the amount outstanding on the finance agreement. You will want to look for Tesla GAP insurance quotes, which at Motor Gap, start from £69 and could save you thousands of pounds.
It is frustrating for the entire automotive industry to see the Tesla Roadster pushed back once again with 2023 now the date set for release. The global chip shortage is creating havoc in the industry, but it is hoped that supply chain issues will resolve shortly and Tesla and other brands can get back on track.