The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Sam Altman said he tried to cancel his 2018 Tesla Roadster reservation and recover its reported $50,000 fee after waiting 7.5 years. Elon Musk later said Altman had received a refund within 24 hours, but the cited reporting does not independently verify that the payment was returned. Altman’s reservation dispute is separate from Tesla’s still-unfinished Roadster project.
What Sam Altman said about his Roadster reservation
Altman described himself as excited about the car and willing to accept delays, but said the wait had become too long. In a public post quoted by TechCrunch, he wrote: “I really was excited for the car!” He added: “And I understand delays. But 7.5 years has felt like a long time to wait.”
TechCrunch reported that Altman’s reservation dated to 2018 and involved a $50,000 fee. Altman’s post showed an attempted email cancellation, according to the report; it did not establish that the request had initially been processed.
Did Altman get his $50,000 back?
Musk said he did. Responding publicly, Musk wrote: “And you forgot to mention act 4, where this issue was fixed and you received a refund within 24 hours.” That is Musk’s account of the outcome. The TechCrunch report documents his statement, but does not independently verify the refund transaction, so the public record cited there does not conclusively establish whether the money was returned.
#1 Best Overall
- Boy's model toy car: The body is made of alloy material, with exquisite paint craftsmanship and good durability.
- Realistic alloy model car: The 1:32 interior decoration is realistic, with six doors that can be opened. The steering wheel and seats have simulated designs.
- Toy car with lights and music: Opening the car door can light up the lights and simulate the sound of an engine starting. It's a toy car that boys like.
- Companion to Decoration and Cake Decorations: It plays a great decorative role on display cabinets at home and is a great decoration for boys' birthday cake parties.
- Gift selection for toy cars for boys aged 3-12: This gift is suitable for children aged 3 and above and is a collectible for car enthusiasts.
Why Tesla’s Roadster delay is a separate story
Tesla announced the second-generation Roadster in November 2017, and its design and schedule were repeatedly pushed back. Altman’s decision to seek a refund concerns his individual reservation; it does not mean Tesla canceled the Roadster project.
As of October 8, 2026, Tesla had not revealed the car or started production. The company had first indicated an October 1 reveal, then moved the event to October 15 in Waco, Texas. Tesla cited severe weather and the fact that the event could only be held outdoors. The revised date was still in the future on October 8, and remained subject to change. TechCrunch reported that production was expected at least a year after the reveal; that was a reported expectation, not a confirmed start date or delivery schedule. See TechCrunch’s report on the weather-related rescheduling and its coverage of the reveal and production timeline.
Rank #2
- The Hot Wheels Car Culture Circuit Legend line features awesome 1:64 scale vehicles with realistic castings and authentic decos.
- This premium assortment features a variety of special categories and themes that appeal to kids and collectors alike.
- Kids ages 3 and up and collectors will love the realistic detail and the fantastic features of both new and retro vehicles for either play or display.
- New Hot Wheels models and castings enhance collectability.
- Car enthusiasts will find a brilliant selection of vehicles known around the world to add to their collections.
What the reported reservation figures mean
TechCrunch’s reporting described historical reservation terms and estimates, not current retail prices or an offer for a car available to buy. It reported a $50,000 deposit, an estimated base price of about $200,000, and $250,000 reservations for some of the 1,000 planned Founders Series cars. The Roadster remained unrevealed and out of production in the latest cited update, so those figures should not be read as confirmed final pricing or present availability.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Authentic Matchbox Collection: Enjoy a premium 5-pack of officially licensed 1:64 scale die-cast Tesla models.
- Iconic Tesla Lineup: The set includes detailed replicas of the Tesla Model S, Model 3, Model X, Model Y, and the 2020 Roadster.
- Collectible Quality: Meticulously crafted with intricate designs and eye-catching finishes to delight Tesla enthusiasts.
- Miniature Masterpieces: Measuring approximately 3 inches long, these miniatures capture the essence of Tesla's cutting-edge designs.
- Perfect for Display or Play: Ideal for building your Tesla collection or as a fun playset for kids and car lovers alike.
Rank #4
- Collectible Die-Cast Model: This Matchbox Tesla Roadster features authentic die-cast metal construction in an elegant silver finish, representing the 91st model in the exclusive 100-piece anniversary collection celebrating 70 years of Matchbox excellence
- Accurate 1:64 Scale: Precisely crafted in 1:64 scale proportions, this miniature Tesla Roadster captures the sleek lines and distinctive design of the iconic electric sports car, making it perfect for display or play
- Premium 2022 Release: Part of the special Matchbox 70 Years commemorative series released in 2022, this limited edition toy car showcases Mattel's commitment to quality craftsmanship and attention to detail in every miniature vehicle
- Perfect Collector's Item: Numbered 91/100 in the anniversary series, this Tesla Roadster makes an excellent addition to any die-cast vehicle collection, appealing to both Matchbox enthusiasts and Tesla fans alike
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality die-cast metal body and durable materials, this toy car is designed to withstand regular handling while maintaining its detailed appearance and structural integrity for years of enjoyment
Rank #3
- Made of zinc alloy with ABS plastic parts
- 5.9 inch x 2.2 inch x 1.8 inch(size)
- The two sides of doors could be opened,front and back covercould be opened too
- You can pull back the car,then it can move forwards with Lights and Sound
- Very suitable as children 4 years and up toys for birthday,Christmas gift, new year. Also it can be a gift for your boyfriend
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
