25-2-2024 (SAN FRANCISCO) In a recent display of technological prowess, Tesla has shared a new video showcasing the capabilities of its Optimus humanoid robot. The footage, posted on Saturday by Tesla’s Optimus account on X, captures the robot confidently walking around one of the company’s testing facilities, accompanied by the caption “Getting my daily steps in.” This presentation reveals a more advanced and seemingly complete version of the Optimus compared to a similar video released a few weeks ago.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk had previously shared a video of a second-generation Optimus prototype, exhibiting a more stripped-down iteration of the technology as it navigated the testing facility. The recent demonstration reinforces Tesla’s commitment to refining and advancing its humanoid robot project.
The unveiling of the Optimus project took place in August 2021, with Musk expressing the possibility of shipping these robots as early as next year. The primary objective of the Optimus robot is to assist in eliminating hazardous, repetitive, and monotonous tasks for humans. Musk has indicated that the initial production models of the technology will be deployed within Tesla’s manufacturing facilities.
Tesla’s push for progress in the Optimus program is evident in the recent recruitment efforts, as the company opened up 61 Optimus-related job positions earlier this month. These listings encompass roles such as manufacturing and testing engineers, reflecting the multifaceted approach to bringing the humanoid robot to fruition.
Optimus strolling around the lab pic.twitter.com/E25ttHGsF0
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 24, 2024
The Optimus project has undergone significant development since its initial introduction. Recent updates from Tesla demonstrate that prototypes of the robots are capable of performing various tasks, including folding laundry, maintaining balance, moving their necks, arms, and legs, and handling activities that demand fine motor skills and discernment, such as sorting blocks into matching categories.
Elon Musk’s ambitious vision for the Optimus extends to tasks as intricate as threading a needle, a capability he anticipates within the next year. Moreover, initial estimates regarding the humanoid robot’s cost suggest it could be priced under $20,000 once Tesla begins commercializing these units.
