Elon Musk has made a bold prediction: by 2040, the world could see at least 10 billion humanoid robots in circulation, outnumbering the global human population. This statement was made during the Future Investment Initiative event held in Saudi Arabia on October 29. Musk emphasized, “I think by 2040 there will be more humanoid robots than humans,” reinforcing his vision for a future dominated by robotics.
The Cost of Humanoid Robots
According to Musk, the expected cost of a versatile, “do-anything” humanoid robot will range between $20,000 and $25,000. Previously, he estimated the mass-produced price of the Tesla Optimus model at $20,000 to $30,000. This price point positions humanoid robots as an increasingly accessible technology for individuals and businesses alike, paving the way for widespread adoption.
The Vision for Tesla’s Future
Musk articulated his belief that the development of robotic technology is crucial for Tesla’s growth. He stated, “Robotic taxis will help Tesla become a $5 trillion company, while Optimus will make Tesla a $25 trillion company.” This ambitious vision underlines Musk’s confidence in the transformative power of AI and robotics, suggesting that the company’s future valuation could rival that of some of the largest firms in the world.
In June, Musk also mentioned a potential market cap of $25 trillion for Tesla. This projection is particularly striking when compared to the total value of the S&P 500, which currently stands at approximately $45.5 trillion, according to data from FactSet. For Tesla to reach nearly half the value of this stock index is considered an extraordinary feat, reflecting Musk’s aspirations for the company’s growth.
Optimus: The Humanoid Robot
The Tesla Optimus was first introduced in 2021, although the initial unveiling featured a male actor dressed in a jumpsuit rather than an actual prototype. In 2022, Tesla revealed the first physical model of Optimus, standing at 173 cm tall and weighing 57 kg. This prototype is equipped with a screen to display information and has showcased a variety of functions, including folding clothes, balancing, picking up eggs, and even doing yoga.
Most recently, Optimus was demonstrated publicly at the We, Robot event on October 11, showcasing its ability to operate autonomously, albeit reportedly with remote control. These developments highlight Tesla’s commitment to advancing humanoid robotics, positioning the company at the forefront of this emerging industry.
Broader Implications and Future Plans
During the Future Investment Initiative event, Musk also addressed the topic of declining global population and hinted at plans to send spacecraft to Mars. He stressed the importance of developing artificial intelligence that seeks “maximum truth,” voicing concerns that some AI systems are being programmed to adhere strictly to “politically correct” narratives, while others adopt a “philosophy of awakening” or even nihilism.
Elon Musk’s vision for a future filled with humanoid robots is both ambitious and thought-provoking. As Tesla accelerates its efforts in robotics with the Optimus model, the implications for industries and society as a whole are profound. If Musk’s predictions hold true, we may soon find ourselves in a world where humanoid robots play an integral role in daily life, forever changing the landscape of technology and human interaction.
