Tesla begins Optimus robot production in California amid 43% profit decline
Tesla has started producing its Optimus humanoid robots at its Fremont, California factory, marking the first production-quality bots.

In Brief
- •Tesla has started producing its Optimus humanoid robots at its Fremont, California factory, marking the first production-quality bots.
- •The company's third-quarter profit dropped 43% due to increased spending on Optimus robots, AI, and autonomous driving.
- •Tesla's revenue was flat at $28.04 billion, with EV sales driving the majority, while solar and energy storage revenue declined 16%.
- •Tesla expects to produce 20,000 Optimus robots per week by the end of 2027, with CEO Elon Musk acknowledging ongoing design and AI improvements.
- •The company's services business, including Full Self-Driving subscriptions, grew 33% year-over-year, bringing in $4.6 billion.
Why It Matters
Tesla's shift towards robotics and AI marks a significant strategic pivot, potentially reshaping the company's future. The 43% profit decline highlights the financial risks associated with such ambitious projects. The success of Optimus and autonomous driving could redefine Tesla's market position and influence the broader robotics and automotive industries. The company's ability to balance these new ventures with traditional EV sales will be crucial for its long-term success.
Key Details
- Profit Decline
- 43%
- Total Revenue
- $28.04 billion
- EV Sales Revenue
- $20 billion
- Solar and Energy Storage Revenue
- $2.8 billion
- Services Business Revenue
- $4.6 billion
- Expected Optimus Production by 2027
- 20,000 per week
Context & Background
Tesla has been increasingly investing in robotics and AI, with Optimus being a key part of its future strategy. The company has previously announced plans for autonomous driving and robotaxi fleets, which are expected to be a significant revenue driver in the future.
Original Reporting & Sources
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