Tesla Initiates Mass Production of Optimus, Targets 2027 for External Sales
Tesla has officially started high-volume production of its Optimus humanoid robot at its Fremont, California factory. CEO Elon Musk anticipates that external companies could begin receiving deliveries by the end of 2027.
This announcement was made during Tesla’s Q3 2026 earnings call on October 21. The company confirmed that production-quality Optimus units are now being produced on a dedicated line at Fremont. This is the same floor space that was previously used to manufacture the now-discontinued Model S and Model X. Musk referred to this as “early production” and set an ambitious internal goal of achieving a production rate of 20,000 robots per week within approximately one year. In addition, a larger Optimus factory is currently under construction in Austin, Texas, with an eventual annual capacity target of 10 million units.
However, Tesla’s Q3 financials presented a mixed picture. Net income fell 43% year-over-year to $787 million on flat revenue of $28.04 billion. The company also reduced its 2026 capital expenditure forecast to approximately $20 billion. On the other hand, the broader humanoid robot market is gaining momentum. Global shipments exceeded 22,000 units in just the first half of 2026, nearly quadrupling the previous year’s pace. This growth was led by Chinese firms AgiBot and Unitree.
Musk was frank about the remaining challenges, stating that a significant number of elements must “come together perfectly” before Optimus is ready for widespread commercial sale. For the time being, most units will continue to be used within Tesla’s own factories.
Source: Technology.org – October 22, 2026