The fancy showroom near Beverly Hills takes its inspiration from Apple stores, Musk said.

"The Apple stores have worked out well. It's a fantastic consumer experience," Musk told AutoWeek. "We wanted a nontraditional automotive experience, and we have it."

The Roaster will have a range of 220 miles per charge and the mileage equivalent of 135 miles per gallon.

The sex appeal of the Roadster is rooted in the electric motor as well: with powerful torque, it can go from standing still to 60 mph in less than 4 seconds.

Tesla can lay claim to putting all-electric cars back on the map, with its racy Roadster. But it certainly won't be alone for long.