Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently revealed that both Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and U.S. President Donald Trump were impressed by the company’s Optimus humanoid robot during a demonstration in Riyadh. The robot’s dance performance to “YMCA” left a lasting impression on the two leaders.
What Happened
Musk stated that several Tesla Optimus robots were showcased to the Crown Prince and President Trump, and they were “very impressed” by the demonstration. One of the robots even performed the “Trump dance,” a signature move often associated with the U.S. President.
Tesla’s Expansion into Saudi Arabia
The demonstration coincided with Tesla’s official entry into the Saudi Arabian market, where the company launched its global lineup, including the Cybercab and Optimus robots. This expansion marks a significant shift in relations between Musk and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which were previously strained during Tesla’s “funding secured” controversy in 2018.
A Future with Humanoid Robots
Musk predicts that humanoid robots will become ubiquitous, comparing them to “personal C-3PO or R2-D2” assistants from Star Wars. He believes that “ultimately, there will be tens of billions” of these robots, and “everyone will want to have their own personal robot.” Musk also emphasized the economic potential of robotics, suggesting that they could create “an economy 10 times the size of the current global economy” and lead to “universal high income.”
Challenges Ahead
Despite Musk’s optimism, Tesla faces challenges in Optimus production, including supply chain constraints such as China’s new export restrictions on rare earth magnets essential for the robot’s actuators. The Saudi expansion aligns with the kingdom’s ambitious plans to produce 500,000 battery-powered vehicles by 2030.
Key Takeaways
- Tesla’s Optimus humanoid robot impressed Mohammed Bin Salman and Donald Trump with its “YMCA” dance performance
- The company has officially entered the Saudi Arabian market, launching its global lineup
- Musk predicts a future with ubiquitous humanoid robots, comparing them to personal Star Wars assistants
- Tesla faces challenges in Optimus production, including supply chain constraints and export restrictions
Looking Ahead
As Tesla continues to expand its presence in Saudi Arabia, the company will need to address the challenges facing Optimus production. With the kingdom’s ambitious plans to produce 500,000 battery-powered vehicles by 2030, Tesla is well-positioned to play a significant role in the region’s growing electric vehicle market.