Tesla’s stock saw a notable increase on Monday, driven by Elon Musk’s ongoing discussions about the potential impact of the company’s humanoid robots. Musk announced on X that Tesla plans to produce “genuinely useful” humanoid robots, beginning with limited production for internal use next year and aiming for larger production by 2026, to supply other companies.
During Tesla’s annual shareholder meeting in April, Musk indicated that the Optimus robots would enter limited production in 2025, with more than 1,000 operational units expected by the year’s end. Currently, two robots are already in use at Tesla’s factory, though the company hasn’t disclosed their specific functions.
Musk has put forth the ambitious idea that the robots could significantly enhance Tesla’s market capitalization, suggesting a potential increase of $20 trillion. The robots are projected to hit the market by late 2025, with a price point estimated between $20,000 and $30,000.
However, skepticism surrounds Musk’s claims regarding the robots’ practical utility. Past demonstrations have faced criticism, with some observers noting that Tesla previously showcased an Optimus robot performing tasks that appeared to be controlled off-screen. Analysts emphasize the challenge Tesla faces in competing with advanced robotics companies like Boston Dynamics, Honda, and newcomers in the field such as Apptronik and UBTech Robotics.
Despite these concerns, Tesla’s stock rose more than 3% following Musk’s comments. Shares have remained relatively stable this year, having recently recovered from previous dips. Investors are awaiting Tesla’s second-quarter earnings report, set to provide further insights from Musk, particularly regarding the long-awaited robotaxi program.
This ongoing enthusiasm about Tesla’s robot initiative reflects a broader trend in the tech industry towards integrating AI and robotics into everyday applications, potentially paving the way for innovative advancements in the coming years.
In summary, while there are doubts about Tesla’s robot capabilities and competition, investor interest appears resilient as the company navigates its future in robotics and AI technology.