Tesla unveils next-gen Solar Roof (and it can be installed in 8 hours, promises Musk)

The next version of Tesla's Solar Roof is here, and it might actually be ready for the masses. 

Tesla has formally unveiled its third-generation Solar Roof, which uses a new kind of tile made of textured black glass. Available now for pre-orders, Elon Musk said Friday the new roofs can be installed in less than 8 hours.

Roofs will start at around $33,950 (Tesla notes its price estimates include discounts from federal tax credits). During a call with reporters Friday, Musk said the price is "less than what the average roof costs plus solar panels."

In addition to upgrades to the actual roof tiles, Musk said the company has made big gains in improving the installation process. He said the company plans to work with outside contractors and that Tesla has hosted "install-athon" contests near its Fremont headquarters in order to test installation methods. Read more...