I was planning on making a thread for this, but I’m glad you already started one. I was very surprised to get a last minute invite as a +1 to the event, and got to see both Roadsters up close. I was blown away to see Engineering Prototype 2 (EP2) in Radiant Red on display, as it is likely the oldest complete Roadster in existence, and it looked fantastic.
There were a ton of distinct differences, many of which are already documented in the Roadster History NA thread. However, this car appeared to have new seats & door panels, and had keys in the “ignition”, which raises the suspicion - is this car now functional? I sincerely hope it sticks around on display at GigaTX for future factory tours, as it is truly a piece of history. While everyone was distracted with the Cybertruck, I stood there for 15+ minutes marveling at this beauty. No shame.
Note it still has the original 1.0 two-speed transmission!
After the speech, on the way out, I saw something tucked away in a dark corner.
It was none other than Founders 1, or more fondly referred to as P1 - the first official production Roadster. It had a few noticeable upgrades such as the complete exterior carbon accent group, xenon headlamp retrofit, and black forged wheels.
A whirlwind event to say the least. I’m still dumbfounded at the chance to see EP2 and P1 up close and personal. The following day in Austin, we received more comments from bystanders than ever, who immediately recognized the car. It warms my heart to see the original Roadsters receiving widespread recognition they deserve.
As a bonus, here’s my VP24,
@Tex EV ’s VIN 113,
@Frisco-Dad ‘s VIN 241, and
@im4uttx ’s VIN 1073. We had a killer time meeting up in Austin for the festival.
So incredible to see him making an entrance in it. Hadn't seen it since the Model Y unveil and wondered where it was.
