Tesla’s stock saw a significant increase on Monday, influenced by CEO Elon Musk’s continued emphasis on the future potential of the company’s humanoid robots. Musk announced on X that Tesla aims to produce “genuinely useful” humanoid robots for internal use next year, with hopes of expanding to mass production for external clients by 2026.
During a shareholders’ meeting in April, Musk had previously indicated that production of Tesla’s humanoid robot, known as Optimus, would be limited in 2025, with over 1,000 units projected to be operational by year-end. Currently, two prototypes are reportedly operational on the factory floor, though the specific tasks they perform have not been disclosed.
Musk has asserted that the introduction of these robots could potentially add a staggering $20 trillion to the company’s market value. However, the robots are not expected to be available for sale until late 2025, with projected retail prices ranging from $20,000 to $30,000.
While Musk’s vision for the robots is ambitious, there remains skepticism surrounding their functionality. Previous demonstrations have raised questions about their capabilities; for instance, a video showcasing an Optimus robot folding a shirt was criticized when it was revealed that an off-screen person was controlling its movements. Analysts have cautioned that Tesla faces challenges in catching up to competitors like Boston Dynamics, Honda, and others that have more established humanoid robotics.
Despite the mixed reviews and challenges ahead, Tesla’s stock gained over 3% following Musk’s optimistic outlook. Investors are keen to hear more updates, particularly as the company prepares to release its second-quarter earnings and provide insight into the much-anticipated robotaxi initiative.
This development highlights the ongoing excitement and potential in the field of robotics and automation, even amidst challenges. If Tesla can effectively navigate the competitive landscape and prove the utility of its humanoid robots, it could redefine productivity in industries far beyond automotive manufacturing.
In summary, Tesla’s focus on humanoid robots is creating buzz in the market, and the upcoming earnings report could offer further clarity on the company’s innovation trajectory. With the right execution, Tesla could lead a transformative wave in robotics and AI, fostering optimism for the future.