Optimus

Tesla CEO Elon Musk predicts the company’s Optimus robots will drive 80% of its future value, potentially reaching a $25 trillion valuation. Facing challenges with EV competition and public perception, Musk aims to shift focus to AI-powered robotaxis and humanoid robots. While Tesla is on track to produce 5,000 Optimus robots in 2025 and deploy them in factories, it trails competitors like Waymo, Unitree and Boston Dynamics in both robotaxi and humanoid robot markets. A recent leadership change in Tesla’s robotics division adds further complexity. Optimus is envisioned as a versatile robot for various tasks.

Following Tesla’s stock plunge and CEO Elon Musk’s challenges, Optimus project leader Milan Kovac unexpectedly departed, citing personal reasons. Kovac, a key figure in Tesla’s Autopilot and Optimus development, played a pivotal role for a decade. His successor, Ashok Elluswamy, is now VP of AI Software. This departure adds to Tesla’s difficulties amidst declining revenue, profit and anticipated drop in EV deliveries, raising concerns about the future of Optimus and Musk’s ambitious goals.

Tesla faces mounting challenges as Milan Kovac, head of the Optimus robot project, resigns. This departure of a key figure, who spearheaded the development of Tesla’s humanoid robot, comes amid a feud between Elon Musk and Donald Trump and a $150 billion stock price drop. Kovac, a ten-year veteran, cited family reasons for his departure, but the timing raises concerns. The move adds further uncertainty to Tesla’s AI and robotics future.