Tesla presents its humanoid robot Optimus: what it can do, how much it will cost and how autonomous it is

The main character of the Cybercab presentation was Optimus, a humanoid robot from Tesla. Elon Musk, the company’s CEO, claims that “this will be the greatest product ever created.” A South African businessman proposed to develop this machine in 2021. A year later, he presented the first prototype. The first version of the robot weighed 57 kilograms (kg) and was 1.75 meters tall. He could walk, carry light loads, and move small objects from one place to another, although with little precision. The tycoon said it would be mass produced and cost less than $20,000.

Tesla introduced Optimus Gen 2 in December last year. The second generation of Android arrived with minor aesthetic changes but significant performance improvements driven by artificial intelligence (AI) systems. The proposal reduced its weight by 10 kg and increased its speed by more than 30% compared to its predecessor. He was able to carry up to 20 kilograms of weight and move his head thanks to the integration of his neck with independent sensors. The accuracy of robotic weapons has increased significantly.

This latest model was tested at Tesla’s latest event. A group of robots were provided to the participants to socialize, dance, and serve drinks. The product demonstrated greater fluidity of movement, outstanding ability to sense changing environments, and an advanced balance system that allows it to walk on uneven surfaces. Elon Musk praised the characteristics of his robotic proposal. “Optimus can do whatever you say. Be a teacher, take care of your children, walk the dog, mow the lawn, be your friend and make cocktails. He will do anything you can think of. It will be wonderful.”

How autonomous is Optimus?

Musk avoided going into detail about Optimus’s autonomy. Earlier this year, Tesla was accused of exaggerating the product’s capabilities. The company published a video of the robot folding clothes with extreme precision. Several users noted that the glove controlling the robot’s movements was controlled by a person. The tycoon clarified that the machine still requires outside help to complete its tasks. However, he assured that the development team is working to eliminate this need.

Robert Scoble, a digital futurist, questioned advances in this regard during Optimus’s last public appearance. He pointed out on social media that robot performance still depends on the operator. “It’s not really AI. One person works remotely. “Next year we’ll see how quickly Optimus learns,” he said. The evangelist clarified his assessment in the second publication. After speaking with a Tesla engineer, he explained that “when he walks, Optimus is controlled by AI.” This suggests that the rest of your investments are not autonomous.

How much will the new Optimus cost?

Optimus is part of Tesla’s future business plans. The release date has not been confirmed by the company. Press reports suggest that widespread adoption could begin after 2026. Despite this, Elon Musk claims that “in the long run, you can buy a robot for $20,000 or $30,000.”

Companies and organizations around the world are redoubling efforts to develop robots with human-like capabilities that can make manufacturing processes more efficient. This is the case with Honda and Hyundai, which, through their American subsidiary Boston Dynamics, have presented some proposals in this regard. Musk has tried to position Tesla as the benchmark in this technology. However, analysts expressed doubts about the fulfillment of his promises. Previously, the businessman assured that he would be able to manage the robotaxi network as early as 2020. But he was able to present these cars only in October 2024.