Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently cautioned that production of the company’s highly-anticipated Cybercab robotaxi and Optimus humanoid robot will start off slow before ramping up significantly over time. Musk explained that the production speed of these groundbreaking products is directly linked to their complexity, with the initial phase expected to be “agonizingly slow” due to the innovative nature of the technology involved.
The Cybercab is a two-seat, all-electric autonomous vehicle designed specifically for Tesla’s Robotaxi network. Despite the initial slow production pace, Tesla has been actively testing the Cybercab on public streets and highways in multiple U.S. states in preparation for volume production slated for April. The vehicle is set to ship without traditional controls like a steering wheel and pedals, relying solely on Tesla’s advanced Full Self-Driving system.
In the long run, Tesla aims to achieve an impressive production rate for the Cybercab using its innovative “unboxed” manufacturing process, with the goal of producing a vehicle every five seconds once fully ramped up. This would be a significant improvement over the current production speed of vehicles like the Model Y, which takes roughly half a minute per unit.
Similarly, the Optimus humanoid robot is expected to follow a similar trajectory, with Tesla planning to unveil a production-intent prototype in the near future and aiming for a one-million-unit production line by the end of the year. Musk has emphasized the importance of Optimus to Tesla’s future, suggesting that the robot could eventually become a major contributor to the company’s overall value.
While the initial production phase may appear modest, Tesla is banking on the promise of massive scale and efficiency in the future. Investors and industry observers are urged to exercise patience as the company navigates the complexities of bringing these groundbreaking products to market. Ultimately, Tesla is confident that the early challenges will pave the way for unprecedented success and innovation in the years to come.