Tesla’s stock experienced an increase on Monday as Elon Musk continues to highlight the potential value of the company’s humanoid robots. Musk announced on social media that Tesla plans to have genuinely useful humanoid robots in limited production for internal use next year, with hopes for larger-scale production for other companies by 2026.
In April, during Tesla’s annual shareholder meeting, Musk indicated that the company’s Optimus robots would move into limited production by 2025, estimating that over 1,000 robots could be operational at Tesla by the end of that year. Currently, two robots are in operation on the factory floor, although their specific roles have not been disclosed.
Musk previously suggested that the new humanoid robots could significantly boost Tesla’s market capitalization by as much as $20 trillion, with sales expected to begin at the end of 2025 for a price ranging from $20,000 to $30,000.
However, the definition of “genuinely useful” robots remains vague, as prior demonstrations have been met with skepticism. For instance, a video featuring an Optimus robot folding a shirt was criticized for appearing to be controlled by an off-screen individual.
Analysts have expressed doubts about Tesla’s ability to compete with more established robotics companies. Craig Irwin from MKM Partners remarked that it would be challenging for Tesla to catch up to Boston Dynamics, noting that their showcased technology seems outdated.
In addition to Boston Dynamics, Tesla faces competition from Honda and Apptronik in the humanoid robotics space. Chinese companies such as Dongfeng Motor and Nio are testing robots developed by UBTech Robotics on their production lines, while BMW has integrated humanoid robots from the Silicon Valley-based company Figure into its facilities since early this year.
As a result of Musk’s optimistic outlook, Tesla’s stock rose more than 3% on Monday, with shares remaining stable year-to-date after a notable recovery in the past two months. The company is set to release its second-quarter earnings on Tuesday, where Musk is expected to provide an update on the long-awaited robotaxi project.