2008 Tesla Roadster

A pivotal piece of automotive history, this 2008 Tesla Roadster Signature One Hundred Edition is VIN 99 of the first 100 Roadsters ever produced, marking Tesla's bold entry into the performance EV space. With a lightweight carbon-fiber body derived from the Lotus Elise chassis, the Roadster proved that an electric car could deliver both excitement and efficiency. Its 375-volt AC induction motor produces 248 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque, sending power to the rear wheels through a single-speed transmissionoffering instant torque and a driving experience that was groundbreaking for its time. With under 31,000 miles, this Roadster remains a well-preserved example of Tesla's pioneering vision. A Signature One Hundred plaque between the headrests serves as a reminder of its exclusivity, further cementing its status as a significant piece of EV history.Adding to its significance, this Roadster carries an incredible backstory that ties directly to Tesla's early days. VIN 99 was originally allocated to the owner of Tesla's first-ever commercial sales and service space in Santa Monica, a lease secured after a personal appeal from Elon Musk, who arrived with a satchel full of patents to make his case. The condition for the lease approval? The lessor had to receive a Signature One Hundred Roadster, and since VIN 100 was already spoken for, he was given VIN 99. As an additional request, the car was painted in a one-off custom green to match his 1931 Bugatti race car in France. This distinctive hue remained unique until Tesla introduced Lightning Green in 2011 on just 33 cars. More recently, this Roadster underwent internal battery sheet repairs in 2020 and was later selected for display at a Tesla/SpaceX event at the Petersen Automotive Museum in late 2022, further solidifying its place in Tesla's storied legacy. This Signature One Hundred Roadster is not just a carit's a defining chapter in the Tesla story and a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike.