Elon Musk reveals Tesla Bot, an AI-powered humanoid robot

KUALA LUMPUR: Tesla's fleet of autonomous vehicles already uses artificial intelligence for a number of systems, but now the automaker aims to run humanoid robots powered by AI, called Tesla Bot. The company’s boss Elon Musk made this announcement as a part of Tesla AI Day 2021 held recently. He also showcased PowerPoint slides of the humanoid robot with a few details. 

A non-working mannequin version of the robot and a bizarre dance by a robot-like dressed performer was also shown on the stage.

Inside the Tesla Bot, the automaker will install a screen and Autopilot system, comprising eight cameras. It will also have the same Full Self-Driving computer, chips, and sensors that are installed in Tesla cars for autonomous driving. Weighing 125 pounds, the robot will be able to carry 45 pounds and lift 150 pounds. The robot’s height will be 5-foot-8-inch long. 

Musk detailed some of the brand’s AI upgrades that can be put onto a humanoid form and explained that the creation will be able to perform basic tasks that are considered as "boring, repetitious and dangerous” like wrenching on cars, making grocery runs, etc. The Bot will also be able to navigate through a world of humans to address the labour shortage and may transform the economy by decreasing the labor costs, says Musk.

Well, this is not the first time that Tesla put forward a fancy idea; the company has a history of interesting ideas that never turned into reality. For instance, during an event in 2019, the brand announced to roll out 1 million autonomous “robotaxis” by 2020, which are still nowhere to be found. Back in 2016, Musk showcased Solar Roof tiles, which also turned out to be a mere concept. So, whether the Tesla Bot will be penned out or not, time will tell.

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