By Natalia Rueda 
The evolution of Tesla’s humanoid robots
In a bold and visionary move, Elon Musk, the charismatic CEO of Tesla, has announced the integration of humanoid robots in its production lines by 2025. This decision could mark a before and after in the manufacturing industry, taking automation to unprecedented levels.
The spotlight is on “Optimus Gen 2,” Tesla’s next generation of humanoid robots. This advanced automaton, expected to be operational later this year, represents a quantum leap in artificial intelligence and robotics. Surpassing its predecessor, Optimus launched in 2022, it promises greater autonomy and versatility, being able to perform everyday tasks such as folding laundry and walking in a strikingly human-like manner.
Developed at Tesla’s Texas facility, Optimus Gen 2 stands 1.73 meters tall and weighs 47 kilograms, and incorporates significant design improvements. These include more agile and precise hands, an articulated neck that allows for more natural movements, and an overall weight reduction that improves its efficiency and mobility.
AI shapes the future landscape
Musk’s vision for these robots goes beyond mere industrial automation. Optimus Gen 2s are projected to have applications in a variety of sectors, from manufacturing to everyday household tasks. The near-term goal is internal deployment at Tesla by 2025, with plans to expand their use to other companies by 2026.
“Tesla will have really useful humanoid robots in low production for internal Tesla use next year and hopefully in high production for other companies in 2026” Musk wrote on his X account.
Tesla will have genuinely useful humanoid robots in low production for Tesla internal use next year and, hopefully, high production for other companies in 2026
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 22, 2024
This technological advance raises important questions about the future of work and society. While automation promises to increase efficiency and productivity, it also raises concerns about job displacement and the need for new skills in an increasingly automated world.
Tesla’s initiative not only challenges traditional conceptions about the capabilities of robots, but also brings us closer to a future where humanoid robots could be an integral part of our daily lives. As other companies follow in Tesla’s footsteps, we are likely to witness a radical transformation in the way we conceive of manufacturing and human-machine interaction.
As Tesla continues to push the boundaries of technology, the addition of humanoid robots to its production line is just another step towards a future once thought to be solely the stuff of science fiction, ushering in a new era in industrial automation.