Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, has announced that the company’s humanoid robot, Optimus, is expected to be released as early as next year. Musk disclosed the development during a conference call with investors, raising anticipation for Tesla’s latest technological innovation.
Musk expressed optimism about Optimus’s progress, indicating that the robot is anticipated to be ready to undertake factory tasks by the year’s end. Tesla leads this endeavor, but it’s important to note that humanoid robots have been developed for years by industry players like Japan’s Honda and Hyundai Motor’s Boston Dynamics.
Musk, known for his bold visions and ambitious projects, has previously hinted that robot sales could become a significant revenue stream for Tesla, potentially eclipsing traditional segments like car manufacturing. With a focus on leveraging artificial intelligence capabilities, Musk believes Tesla is uniquely positioned to achieve volume production efficiently.
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding Tesla’s humanoid robot project, skepticism persists due to Musk’s track record of overpromising and underdelivering. Past examples, such as the delayed rollout of Tesla’s ‘robotaxi’ network, serve as cautionary tales amidst the excitement.
As speculation swirls about the potential pricing of Tesla’s Optimus robot, comparisons to the company’s existing product line provide some context. With the Model Y starting at $43,990 in the US, Musk’s suggestions hint at a price range below $25,000-$30,000 for Optimus. However, recent statements from Musk indicate a possibility of pricing the Tesla Bot even lower, potentially below $20,000, aligning with Tesla’s commitment to accessibility and innovation.
As Tesla’s humanoid robot inches closer to reality, the tech world eagerly awaits to witness its impact on the future of automation and robotics.
