Tesla CEO Elon Musk has announced that the third generation of the Optimus humanoid robot is now mobile, but the public will have to wait a bit longer for its official debut. Musk provided an update on the project’s progress on March 31, acknowledging the missed deadline for the first-quarter reveal.
“Optimus 3 is walking around, but needs some finishing touches before it’s ready to be shown,” Musk stated.
While the delay may come as a disappointment to those anticipating a major presentation by the end of March, it is worth noting that Optimus 3 is already operational. Recent sightings show the robot working at the Tesla Diner in Los Angeles, where it is observed moving and performing basic tasks for onlookers.
Optimus 3 marks a significant advancement in Tesla’s robotics program. Unlike previous research-focused prototypes, the third generation is designed for mass production. It boasts highly advanced hands with 22 degrees of freedom, double that of the Gen 2 model, and is powered by the new AI5 chip. This cutting-edge hardware enables the robot to run the same neural network architecture utilized in Tesla’s Full Self-Driving software.
The success of the Optimus project is crucial for Tesla’s long-term valuation, with Musk emphasizing its importance by suggesting it could eventually surpass the automotive side of the business. In fact, Tesla recently ceased custom orders for the Model S and Model X to shift its Fremont production lines towards robot manufacturing.
While an official unveiling date has not been set, the final touches likely involve software refinement and hardware reliability testing to ensure the robot is truly impressive for its first official appearance. Production timelines for low-volume output are targeted for this summer, with a broader ramp-up expected in 2027.
Overall, the development of Optimus 3 represents a significant milestone for Tesla’s robotics program and highlights the company’s commitment to innovation and technological advancement. Stay tuned for further updates on this groundbreaking project.