The race to deploy humanoid robots is heating up as major automakers and tech giants intensify their efforts to bring these futuristic machines into reality.
Japan's Honda and Hyundai Motor's Boston Dynamics have long been at the forefront of humanoid robot development. However, recent partnerships and announcements indicate a broader push into this emerging field.
This year, Microsoft and Nvidia-backed startup Figure made waves by revealing a partnership with German automaker BMW to deploy humanoid robots in the car maker's facility in the United States.
Tech titan Elon Musk has also thrown his hat into the ring, suggesting that robot sales could potentially eclipse other segments of Tesla's business. Speaking on a recent call, Musk expressed confidence in Tesla's ability to achieve volume production of humanoid robots.
Tesla's foray into humanoid robots is not without precedent.
In September 2022, the company revealed the first generation of its Optimus robot, affectionately dubbed Bumblebee. This year, Tesla showcased a second-generation prototype of the bipedal robot, demonstrating its ability to perform tasks such as folding a T-shirt.
Meanwhile, Figure released a video showcasing its 01 robot brewing coffee, while Boston Dynamics unveiled an electric platform for its Atlas humanoid robot, demonstrating impressive agility and mobility.
Despite Musk's ambitious vision, skeptics point to Tesla's track record of failing to deliver on bold promises. In 2019, Musk predicted the launch of a network of "robotaxi" autonomous cars by 2020, a goal that remains unrealized.
The company recently announced the launch of "Optimus Gen 2," boasting significant improvements over previous iterations.
Follow us
