Tesla Inc.’s Optimus humanoid robot was displayed at the World Robot Conference in Beijing which saw a record 27 humanoid robots debut. While Chinese companies presented robots performing various tasks, Tesla’s Optimus remained stationary inside a clear box, as reported by CNBC. Elon Musk has claimed that Optimus can perform household chores and plans to test the robots in Tesla factories next year.
Investment in China’s robotics industry has exceeded 100 billion yuan over the past decade, according to Wei Cao of Lanchi Ventures. Cao believes that humanoid robots will have commercially viable use cases in manufacturing within the next year or two. Startups such as Agibot and Stardust Intelligence showcased their humanoid robots at the conference, with Agibot planning to start deliveries in mid-October.
The competition between Tesla and Chinese companies in the robotics sector is growing, as China is focused on advancing its robotics industry. President Xi Jinping’s policy of fostering “new productive forces” in technology has led to initiatives like a $1.4 billion state-backed fund for robotics. China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has set a goal of mass producing humanoid robots by 2025 to support robotics startups and talent development.
Elon Musk hinted at a delay in Tesla’s Optimus production timeline, originally aiming for useful tasks to be performed in Tesla factories by the end of this year and external sales starting in 2025. However, Musk recently adjusted this timeline, hoping that Optimus will be available for other companies by 2026. The developments in the robotics sector highlight the advancements and competitive landscape being shaped by companies like Tesla and Chinese startups.