Tesla’s stock experienced an increase on Monday as CEO Elon Musk highlighted the company’s plans for humanoid robots. Musk stated on X that Tesla intends to have truly useful humanoid robots in limited production for internal use next year, with hopes for higher production for external companies by 2026.
During Tesla’s annual meeting in April, Musk had mentioned that the Optimus robots would enter limited production in 2025, predicting that over 1,000 units would be operational by the end of that year. Currently, two robots are reportedly on the factory floor, but Tesla has not clarified what tasks they perform.
Musk also theorized that the introduction of these robots could potentially add $20 trillion to Tesla’s market value. However, the robots are not expected to be available for purchase until late 2025, with anticipated prices ranging from $20,000 to $30,000.
The specifics of Musk’s description of the robots as “genuinely useful” are unclear, especially given previous demonstrations that have raised skepticism. In a May incident, Tesla faced criticism for a video purportedly showcasing an Optimus robot folding a shirt, which was later suggested to have been manipulated by an off-screen person.
Tesla’s history of using theatrical presentations to showcase the robots includes the 2021 introduction of the Optimus project, where a performer in a robot suit famously danced on stage.
Analysts have expressed doubts about Tesla’s progress, with Craig Irwin from Roth MKM noting the challenges the company faces in competing with established robotics firms like Boston Dynamics. He remarked that Tesla’s technology appears to lag significantly behind the advancements in the field.
Tesla will also be competing with companies like Honda, Apptronik, and Chinese firms Dongfeng Motor and Nio, which are already integrating humanoid robots into their manufacturing processes. BMW has similarly partnered with Silicon Valley’s Figure to utilize humanoid robots in its operations since January.
Following Musk’s remarks, Tesla’s shares rose over 3% on Monday, and the stock remains relatively stable year-to-date after a notable rebound in recent months. The company is slated to report its second-quarter earnings on Tuesday, where Musk is expected to provide updates on the much-anticipated robotaxi launch.