Tesla’s “We, Robot” Event Falls Short of Investor Expectations
Tesla’s highly anticipated “We, Robot” event, held on a Hollywood movie studio lot, aimed to showcase the company’s advancements in AI and robotics. However, the spectacle failed to impress investors, resulting in a drop in Tesla’s stock price.
The event featured Optimus humanoid robots, reminiscent of those from the film “I, Robot,” performing tasks such as pouring drinks and engaging in conversation. Despite the futuristic display, skepticism arose when it was revealed that the robots were teleoperated by humans, casting doubt on Tesla’s AI capabilities.
Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas noted the reliance on human intervention for the robots’ operations. Reports indicated that while AI was used for the robots’ walking functions, human assistance was required for conversation. This revelation contradicted CEO Elon Musk’s claims about Optimus’ ability to perform various tasks independently.
A video from the event showcased an Optimus robot attempting to converse, highlighting its current limitations. Investors were also unimpressed by the Cybercab, Tesla’s “robotaxi” vehicle, which appeared less advanced compared to competitors like Waymo.
CFRA analyst Garrett Nelson likened the event to a confusing movie with special effects, leaving attendees questioning the substance of Tesla’s demonstrations. The presentation underscored the gap between Tesla’s ambitious visions and the current state of its technology.
Tesla’s stock price declined following the event, reflecting investor skepticism about the company’s ability to deliver on promises of mass-market AI technology. The reaction highlights the growing scrutiny faced by Tesla and Musk regarding their ambitious claims and timelines for technological advancements.