Tesla CEO Elon Musk has stated that the price of the Optimus humanoid robot should be kept below half the price of a car to achieve mass commercialization.
As of 2023, Tesla's global average car price exceeds $45,000, with around $47,000 for the US new car market. This means the robot's price could land around $20,000 to $25,000.
According to Electrek's reports Musk believes that Tesla can lower the robot's price to below half the cost of a car, although no specific figure was provided. Many speculated the attempt to keep the robots at an affordable price for most consumers is to achieve commercialization on a large scale.
Tesla recently unveiled the next-generation humanoid robot, Optimus Gen 2, which boasts significant improvements over its predecessor. Equipped with actuators and sensors designed by Tesla, the robot offers enhanced balance, and all ten fingers are reportedly tactile-sensitive.
Musk has previously emphasized that Optimus is underestimated by outsiders, foreseeing it as a major contributor to Tesla's long-term value. He envisions a future where every household owns an Optimus, capable of performing various manufacturing and service tasks, estimating a potential market demand of 10 to 20 billion units.
Doubts amongst industry still linger about the possibility of developing versatile robots in the short term to take on hazardous or repetitive tasks. However, Tesla believes that with its investment in AI technology and expertise in areas like autonomous driving, batteries, and electric motors, this goal is achievable.
From Tesla's perspective, a self-driving car is akin to a robot on wheels.
Tesla has also indicated plans to use the robot in internal factory operations soon. If its utility is confirmed, Tesla is prepared to proceed with public sales.
The production timeline for Optimus remains unknown. However, Tesla has recently opened more job positions related to robotics, including roles in the supply chain and manufacturing.
