Tesla’s Optimus humanoid robot could reach outside customers as early as the second half of 2027, potentially marking one of the biggest steps yet toward commercial humanoid robotics. Tesla describes Optimus as a general-purpose autonomous biped designed to handle unsafe, repetitive, boring, and physically demanding tasks in factories, businesses, and eventually homes. The company has also been building out manufacturing capability for Optimus, with current engineering roles focused on everything from full-bot assembly testing to high-dexterity hands with tactile sensing. Tesla has reportedly told investors that the Gen 3 design is finalized, the supply chain is largely locked in, and a production line is being installed at Fremont. Long term, Tesla’s ambitions are enormous, with the company positioning Optimus as something that could eventually operate at massive scale across manufacturing, logistics, and everyday life. The biggest challenge is turning impressive prototypes into ...