Tesla has temporarily halted the production of its Optimus humanoid robots, reportedly due to significant challenges. This information comes from a report by The Information.
Earlier in March, Tesla CEO Elon Musk had ambitiously declared plans to produce 5,000 Optimus units by the close of 2025. However, sources indicate that the company will not meet this target and has since revised its manufacturing schedule. It is even possible that no new robots will be released this year.
The primary obstacle revolves around the robot`s manipulators — its hands. Experts explain that these robotic hands represent the most technically intricate components in Tesla`s humanoid design. Engineers are reportedly encountering difficulties with forearm development. The project also experienced a notable setback following the departure of Optimus creator Milan Kovac from Musk`s corporation in June.
Sources cited by The Information reveal a growing skepticism among Tesla employees in private discussions regarding the actual necessity of a humanoid robot, given the immense technical complexities and labor costs associated with its development. Despite these concerns, some already-produced Optimus units are currently deployed within Tesla factories, where they perform tasks such as sorting electric vehicle batteries.
Notably, back in early October, renowned robotics pioneer Rodney Brooks offered his perspective on why humanoid robots might be inherently flawed. He contended that bipedal machines often lack the sufficient dexterity required for practical, real-world applications.
