Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, has expressed confidence that the Optimus robot will be extensively used in factories. However, Chris Walti, the former head of Tesla’s robotics team, argues that humanoid robots like Optimus are not well-suited for factory environments. Walti explains that while humanoid robots are a fascinating technology with immense potential, their efficiency in warehouses, logistics, and manufacturing is lower. He believes that the design of humanoid robots lacks practical value for industrial tasks, which are typically repetitive and require speed.
Musk has projected that thousands of Optimus robots will be operational in Tesla’s factories by the end of the year, with an ambitious goal of producing one million robots annually by 2030. Tesla revealed last June that two Optimus robots were already working in one of its factories, although their specific tasks were not disclosed. Musk has suggested that Optimus could handle low-skill and hazardous tasks currently performed by human workers.
Walti believes that humanoid robots present a more complex challenge than self-driving cars, as they require a broader range of movement. He suggests that robot technology has not yet advanced to the point where humanoid robots can be effectively deployed.
