From films like Ex Machina to I, Robot, the concept of robots gradually dominating the world has been explored multiple times in cinema. Yet, this hasn’t deterred Elon Musk from venturing into the realm of robotics.
On the night of October 10, the tech entrepreneur hosted an event at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California, to unveil Tesla’s latest innovation, the Robotaxi, also known as the Cybercab.
Years ago, Musk revealed his vision for the taxi cab and initially aimed to have numerous units on the roads by 2020. However, this timeline was extended, as reported by Car and Driver.
Tesla’s cutting-edge vehicles depend on their Full Self-Driving (FSD) software, and unlike traditional cars, they lack a steering wheel and pedals.
According to Musk, production for these vehicles is anticipated to start ‘before 2027’.
Away from the Robotaxi’s spotlight, Tesla also showcased their humanoid robots, Optimus, which mingled with attendees at the event.
Musk claimed that these bots are capable of performing a variety of tasks, from taking the dog for a walk and supervising children to making drinks and mowing lawns.
He lauded these Optimus robots as ‘the biggest product ever of any kind’.
Musk further emphasized that the humanoid technology represents a ‘fundamental transformation for civilization’, according to The Verge.
For those interested, the price for these robots is estimated to be between $20,000 and $30,000.
During the event, attendees captured footage of their interactions with the numerous Optimus robots present, which left many in awe.
In one video, an Optimus engages in a conversation with a person about their respective residences.
When asked about the biggest challenge of being a robot, Optimus responded: “Urm, trying to be as human as you guys are. And that’s something I try harder to do everyday and I hope that you all help us become that.”
Another clip shows Optimus donning a cowboy hat and serving drinks to event guests.
The robot then inquired if someone would like to take a photo and posed with a peace sign as the attendee snapped a selfie.
“This is insane,” a viewer commented on the video.
“That is so wild,” another echoed. “What got me is how naturally it responded when asked for a watermelon drink.”
A third person added: “This is some Fallout type s**t. Incredible.”
The future is undoubtedly upon us…