Tesla’s Optimus Bot Steals the Show at Robotaxi Debut

Tesla unveiled its new Robovan vehicle and a fleet of humanoid Optimus robots at tonight’s Cybertruck event, with several Optimuses walking out alongside the car’s debut. The robot can also be observed in a video performing daily human tasks, such as retrieving packages from the porch and tending to one’s vegetation.

“Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk quipped, ‘The Optimus will roam freely among you.'” As you master the skill, you’ll be able to walk alongside them effortlessly, with them expertly serving refreshing drinks.

Elon Musk notes that the technology is likely to be primarily used for everyday tasks, such as walking the dog, caring for children, maintaining a garden or preparing refreshments. He estimated that the total cost would range from $20,000 to $30,000 over the long term.

“Musk notes that he believes this new product will be the biggest and most significant innovation of its kind to date.”

Confirmation came after the presentation when livestream footage revealed attendees engaging with Optimus robots both at individual tables and amidst crowded areas. Despite this, the robots were merely standing still, their arms limp and unresponsive. The vending machine displayed a selection of cold beverages; meanwhile, the Optimus bot remained stationary, merely grasping a cup filled with ice. Despite these differences, a single robot might discreetly deposit a modest gift bag on another workstation and engage in a game of rock-paper-scissors with colleagues. Among the lush greenery, a whimsical gazebo stood encased, its transparent walls revealing a mesmerizing spectacle: a troupe of dancing robots pirouetting in perfect harmony.

Tesla’s robotic venture wasn’t initially met with high expectations when Elon Musk unveiled it in 2021, as he took center stage and performed an unconventional dance move. In 2022, the corporation officially confirmed that a representative gingerly stepped onto the stage.

Elon Musk has boldly predicted that Optimus, his upcoming humanoid robot, will bring about a fundamental transformation for humanity. He also made more specific promises to traders, stating that the technology will enable a “two-orders-of-magnitude” improvement in financial output and that it can be produced at a scale of hundreds of thousands of units. Musk estimated that each unit will cost around $20,000 and open up new possibilities for application.