Tesla shares saw an increase on Monday as Elon Musk highlighted the potential value of the company’s humanoid robots.
Musk shared on social media that Tesla plans to have “genuinely useful humanoid robots” available for internal use next year, with hopes for broader production for other companies by 2026.
Earlier this year, during Tesla’s annual shareholder meeting, Musk indicated that the Optimus robot would enter limited production in 2025. He estimated that by the end of that year, over 1,000 robots could be operational at Tesla. Currently, two robots are already present on the factory floor, although Tesla has not disclosed their specific roles.
Musk mentioned a scenario in which the robot could significantly boost Tesla’s market value by $20 trillion. However, the robots are not expected to be available for purchase until late 2025, with pricing anticipated between $20,000 and $30,000.
The definition of “genuinely useful” remains vague, given that previous product demonstrations have raised skepticism. In one notable instance, Tesla was criticized for a video where an Optimus appeared to fold a shirt while being manipulated by an operator off-screen.
Tesla’s promotional tactics have previously faced scrutiny; for example, the Optimus project was launched in 2021 with a performance featuring an individual in a robot costume.
Critics have expressed doubts about Tesla’s ability to compete with established companies like Boston Dynamics. Analysts have pointed out that Tesla’s technology appears outdated compared to the advancements in robotics seen in the industry.
In addition to Boston Dynamics, Tesla will face competition from Honda and Apptronik, as well as Chinese manufacturers such as Dongfeng Motor and Nio, who are already testing humanoid robots in production settings. BMW has also begun using humanoid robots from Silicon Valley’s Figure in its operations since January.
As a result of Musk’s comments, Tesla’s stock gained more than 3% on Monday. Year-to-date, shares have remained relatively stable after a notable recovery over the previous two months. Tesla is set to report its second-quarter earnings on Tuesday, where Musk is expected to provide updates regarding the company’s delayed robotaxi launch.