In 2021, Tesla introduced its Optimus humanoid robot. The company stated that Optimus is currently being utilized on its factory floor and two of these robots have already been deployed. Elon Musk has praised Optimus as Tesla’s most valuable product, although there is still progress to be made. It appears that Optimus may be assisting in the production of Tesla’s vehicles, with reports of the robots autonomously performing tasks in the factory.
In a recent overview of Tesla’s achievements since 2018, the company mentioned the deployment of two Optimus robots in the factory. However, it is not specified which factory these robots are operating in or what specific tasks they are completing. Tesla has not provided confirmation upon being contacted regarding this information. It was mentioned in a previous earnings call that Optimus would be able to perform factory roles by the end of the year and could potentially be available for sale by the end of 2025. Musk has expressed his belief that Optimus is more valuable than any other project undertaken by Tesla, envisioning a limitless future once these robots are fully operational.
Despite Tesla’s progress with Optimus, there is competition in the field of factory automation. BMW recently partnered with a robotics startup to deploy robots in its South Carolina factory, while Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers are also exploring similar technologies. Dongfeng Motors and Nio have implemented robots on their production lines, showcasing the growing interest in automating factory processes. Musk’s ambitious vision for Optimus as a key asset for Tesla’s future remains a work in progress but indicates a significant step towards advanced automation within the automotive industry.