Tesla’s stock experienced a notable increase on Monday, driven by CEO Elon Musk’s ongoing promotion of the company’s humanoid robots. Musk stated on X that Tesla is on track to produce “genuinely useful humanoid robots” for internal use by next year, with hopes for wider production by 2026. During the recent annual shareholders’ meeting, Musk projected that by the end of 2025, there would be over 1,000 robots operational within Tesla, although their specific functions remain undisclosed.
Musk has suggested that these robots could significantly impact Tesla’s market value, potentially adding as much as $20 trillion to the company’s capitalization. While the robots are not expected to be available for commercial sale until late 2025, their price range is anticipated to be between $20,000 and $30,000.
However, questions linger regarding the actual utility of the robots. Previous demonstrations have received criticism; in one instance, a video showcased a robot folding a shirt, which was later revealed to have been controlled by an operator off-screen. Critics, such as MKM analyst Craig Irwin, have voiced skepticism about Tesla’s ability to compete with established robotics firms like Boston Dynamics, given the lack of significant advancements demonstrated since the project’s launch.
Tesla faces competition not only from Hyundai’s Boston Dynamics but also from Japan’s Honda and various Chinese companies, including Nio. Other automakers like BMW have already begun integrating humanoid robots into their production lines.
Despite the skepticism, Musk’s comments led to a more than 3% increase in Tesla’s stock on Monday. The shares remain relatively stable for the year, especially after a recent resurgence in value. Investors are awaiting Tesla’s second-quarter earnings report on Tuesday, where Musk is expected to provide updates on the anticipated robotaxi rollout.
This development highlights the intersection of robotics and automotive innovation, pushing boundaries in both industries. While there are challenges ahead, Tesla’s ambitious plans could pave the way for breakthroughs in humanoid robotics, potentially transforming how companies operate in the future.
In summary, Tesla is pursuing an ambitious goal with its humanoid robots, aiming to enhance production capacities and add significant market value. While there are hurdles to overcome and skepticism to address, the company’s innovative spirit could drive impressive advancements in the robotic landscape.