Exclusive Tesla Roadster R&D Prototype Hits the Market

Tesla Roadster Prototype with Unique Performance Package Up for Auction

The original Tesla Roadster is an iconic vehicle that marked the beginning of Tesla and sparked the EV revolution. However, an exclusive prototype of this groundbreaking car, which many enthusiasts and collectors may not be familiar with, is now up for auction. This unique Roadster was part of a performance package development project that never made it to market.

Auction Details:

• Platform: Cars & Bids
• Auction End Date: July 15th at 10:30 AM PDT

Background:
The Roadster in question, a Tesla Roadster Sport with VIN #1124, comes with a fascinating history. Initially bought from Tesla in 2012, it suffered damage in an accident. It was reacquired by Tesla and subsequently repaired and restored under the supervision of Carl Medlock at Tesla’s Seattle service location. Carl Medlock now runs Medlock and Sons, one of the few third-party Roadster repair shops in the U.S., and currently co-owns the vehicle with Jamison Cummings, Tesla’s Chief Technician from the Roadster era.

The Unveiled Performance Project:
Joost de Vries, Tesla’s former VP of Service, spearheaded a project intended to create a performance package for the Tesla Roadster. The objective was to make the service department profitable through an after-purchase performance enhancement package. Despite internal controversy and accusations of overspending, the project saw significant development before it was ultimately shelved.

The prototype, dubbed either “Roadster RR” or “Roadster E-Sport,” boasts an array of unique modifications:

• Tarox Italian Performance Brakes: Custom front and rear brakes, one of only three cars to feature this system.
• Custom ABS Flash: Engineered by Continental to work with the Tarox braking system, also one of three.
• Hollinger Limited Slip Differential: Specially tuned for EV torque, one of two known to exist.
• Bilstein Performance Sport Suspension: Custom-tuned, making it a sole unit.
• Roadster RR Camber Plates and Handling Package: A bespoke addition.
• Hand-Laid Raw Carbon Bodywork: The standout feature, with the entire body clear-coated instead of painted, showcasing the carbon fiber’s weave.

Distinctive Features:
Unlike other customized Roadsters, this prototype is uniquely "factory customized," retaining the authenticity of a manufacturer upgrade. This all-in-one package, which was never sold to the public, was expected to cost $30,000 and intended to boost both aesthetics and performance significantly.

Current Condition and Ownership:
After de Vries, the car was acquired by Cummings and Medlock in 2022. Given a fresh start with a new "Roadster 3.0" 80kWh battery pack, the car has been driven less than 100 miles on the new battery, while its total mileage stands at approximately 31,600 miles.

Final Thoughts:
This Tesla Roadster prototype stands as a significant piece of Tesla’s history and a collector’s gem. Interested buyers can discover more about this unique vehicle and participate in the auction through Cars & Bids. The winner will also receive internal documentation about the car’s development project.

Disclaimer:
FTC: We earn income from affiliate links. More details can be found in our disclosure.

Don’t miss the opportunity to own a rare piece of automotive history that encapsulates the spirit and innovation of Tesla’s early days.