At the Tesla Robot Day event on October 10, 2024, in Los Angeles, Elon Musk unveiled several new developments that further solidify Tesla's position as a leader in autonomous technologies and robotics. Among the highlights were the next generation of autonomous taxis, known as Robotaxi, a larger Robovan, and the humanoid robot Optimus, whose potential seems boundless.
Robotaxi: The Future of Electric Transportation
One of the main announcements of the evening was the introduction of the Robotaxi, also referred to as the "Cybercab." This fully autonomous, two-seater electric vehicle is designed to operate without a steering wheel or pedals. Tesla plans to start production of these futuristic vehicles in 2026, aiming to keep the price under $27 500 €. A notable feature is its wireless inductive charging system, eliminating the need for physical connections, making charging more convenient and efficient.
Robovan: Revolutionizing Public Transportation
Another key highlight of the event was the introduction of the Robovan, an autonomous electric bus capable of seating up to 20 passengers. This versatile vehicle is designed to serve various roles, from a school bus to a recreational van or even a cargo transporter. The Robovan marks a significant leap forward in Tesla's self-driving ambitions, aiming to reduce transport costs to just 5–10 cents per mile.
Optimus: A Robot for Everyday Tasks
The Optimus humanoid robot was also a major attraction of the evening. Designed to handle everyday tasks, Optimus showcased its abilities by handing out gifts and interacting with attendees. Elon Musk envisions a tremendous future for this robot, suggesting it could revolutionize productivity and economic output. Tesla is targeting a price of around 18 200 € for Optimus, potentially making it widely accessible in the near future.
The Future of Robotics
The event, titled "We, Robot," made it clear that Tesla is quickly transitioning from electric vehicle manufacturing to developing advanced robotic technologies. While full-scale production and deployment of these innovations may still take time, it's evident that robotics has the potential to become a cornerstone of the economy in the coming decades. Tesla is moving forward with a clear objective: to create a fully autonomous and robotic future.
Although precise timelines for these innovations are not yet fully defined, Tesla has promised further advancements, and we can expect more updates on autonomous driving and robotics in the coming year.
