A 2011 Tesla Roadster is up for auction. But it’s no ordinary model. This unique prototype has been extensively modified, both aesthetically and in terms of performance.
You’ve probably heard of the original Tesla Roadster. Produced between 2008 and 2012, it’s the model that truly gave birth to Tesla and paved the way for the democratization of electric cars as we know them today. It was the very first model sold by Elon Musk’s company. The American brand only sold 2,450 units worldwide.
One particular Roadster is making a comeback. This Tesla Roadster Sport is a one-of-a-kind prototype. Purchased in 2011 by an individual, the car bears the identification number 1124. After a few months, the Roadster was damaged in an accident and was acquired back by Tesla. Eventually, Joost de Vries, the head of Tesla’s aftersales service at the time, decided to acquire the car.
The Roadster was repaired under the supervision of Carl Medlock, the head of Tesla’s aftersales service center in Seattle. He now runs one of the few Roadster repair workshops in the United States, Medlock and Sons. With the aim of making his service profitable, a directive from management, Joost de Vries thought that he could transform the Tesla Roadsters that came through his workshop. The 1124 model served as a test subject.
Improved Performance
Ultimately, this project was never offered to the general public. Joost de Vries’ Roadster is therefore the only one to have undergone this transformation. Here are some of the enhancements: Tarox Italian Performance brakes at the front and rear, custom ABS flash designed to work with the Tarox system, Hollinger limited-slip differential, custom-tuned Bilstein Performance Sport suspension.
The model also features a custom Roadster RR handling kit and a hand-laid raw carbon body. This package was intended to be offered to customers for $30,000. The project was never approved by management, making this Roadster a one-of-a-kind prototype. It is even more valuable because the modifications were done by Tesla and not just any workshop.
The car remained in Joost de Vries’ possession until it was purchased by Jamison Cummings, Tesla’s chief technician at the time of the Roadster, and Carl Medlock in 2022. The battery was dead, so the car received a new 80 kWh “Roadster 3.0” pack. It has only been driven for 160 km. In total, the Roadster has 50,800 km on the odometer.
Auction Ends on July 15
This unique model is currently up for sale. The highest offer so far is $90,000. The auction ends on July 15, 2024. With such an exclusive model, expect the price to climb in the final hours. Early fans won’t miss this opportunity.