Tesla to start humanoid robot production next year, says Musk

WEB DESK: Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, has announced that the electric vehicle manufacturer will start producing humanoid robots next year.

In a recent post on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, Musk revealed that the robots will initially be deployed within Tesla, with plans to commence sales to other companies in 2026.

Musk had previously anticipated that the humanoid robot, named Optimus, would be operational in Tesla factories by the end of this year. Other technology companies, such as Honda and Boston Dynamics, are also developing their own versions of humanoid robots.

“Tesla will begin with low-volume production of highly functional humanoid robots for internal use next year, with hopes to ramp up to significant production for external clients by 2026,” Musk stated. This announcement came just a day before Tesla was scheduled to release its latest financial results.

Following the news, Tesla’s shares rose more than 5 per cent in Monday’s trading session in New York. The company aims to create an “autonomous humanoid robot” designed to handle “unsafe, repetitive, or mundane tasks,” with the goal of each unit costing less than $20,000 (£17,900).

Musk is known for setting ambitious targets for his ventures, though he has not always met these deadlines. In 2019, he expressed confidence that Tesla would introduce self-driving taxis by the following year.

Earlier this year, Musk promised the unveiling of a robotaxi on August 8, but recent reports suggest the event might be delayed to October. Musk hinted at changes to the vehicle’s design and mentioned that the additional time would allow Tesla to showcase other features.

As demand for electric vehicles slows, Musk’s companies are increasingly focusing on advancements in artificial intelligence, autonomous driving, and robotics.

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