On February 2, 2026, Tesla China surprised everyone on Weibo by announcing that Optimus V3 is “about to be officially unveiled.” While I’m quietly driving my Tesla Model 3, the brand is preparing a much more radical revolution: that of humanoid robotics.
To realize this ambition, Tesla made a strong strategic choice: to halt production of the Tesla Model S and Tesla Model X, two iconic models, to free up factory space. The goal? To achieve production of 1 million humanoid robots per year.
What fascinates me about this announcement is not just the technological prowess, but especially the underlying industrial strategy. Tesla is no longer content with just revolutionizing the automotive industry: it wants to transform how we produce and live.
Tesla China Officially Announces Optimus V3 on Weibo: A Strong Strategic Choice
The announcement is not insignificant. Tesla China used Weibo, the Chinese equivalent of Twitter/X, to officially communicate that Optimus V3 is about to be unveiled. The phrasing “about to be unveiled” indicates confirmed imminence, not just a distant promise.
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Why China First? Several Strategic Reasons:
- China represents the most massive market for industrial robotics
- Chinese manufacturing expertise is recognized, even Musk publicly admits it
- It’s a strong political signal: Tesla is emphasizing local roots
This announcement was made during the Q4/FY 2025 earnings call, which confirms it’s not just a communication stunt. My analysis? It’s no coincidence that Tesla China is communicating first, especially since Giga Shanghai already produces Tesla Model 3 and Y in mass with formidable efficiency.
But to realize this ambition, Tesla had to make radical choices…
Tesla Model S and Tesla Model X Sacrificed: Tesla’s Industrial Bet
Two Iconic Models Sidelined
The Tesla Model S and Tesla Model X were pioneers of Tesla’s premium lineup. These models laid the foundation for the brand, but today represent a minority share of global sales.
The confirmed production halt to free up factory space marks a strong symbolic break: Tesla is definitively turning the page on “classic” high-end sedans and SUVs.
I’ve always admired the Tesla Model S Plaid and its immense performance, but I understand the logic: Tesla is betting on the future, not on nostalgia.
Resource Reallocation Towards Optimus
Humanoid robotics officially becomes the core of Tesla’s strategy. Factory space is a rare and precious resource: every square meter counts.
Tesla needs production lines entirely dedicated to Optimus V3, with assembly requirements very different from those of a car. It’s a parallel with the automotive industry: the same logic as the gradual phasing out of internal combustion engines in favor of electric.
My view? Tesla anticipates a much larger market than that of premium automobiles. The potential of humanoid robotics far exceeds that of a few thousand Tesla Model S units sold each year.
But where exactly will Tesla mass-produce these robots?
Giga Shanghai, Favorite for Optimus V3 Mass Production?
Giga Shanghai is currently the largest Tesla factory in terms of production volume. Its manufacturing efficiency is unmatched in terms of pace, quality, and cost.
Musk himself acknowledges that Chinese companies are “the most competitive in the world.” A pilot line dedicated to Optimus V3 has been announced, even if the exact location is not yet officially confirmed.
Several arguments favor Shanghai:
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- An already developed ecosystem of robotics suppliers
- A skilled workforce in electronics and precision assembly
- Government support for AI and robotics technologies
The question of Tesla production in China always raises debates, between manufacturing efficiency and geopolitical stakes. There are risks of dependence that cannot be ignored.
Moreover, V4 is planned for Giga Texas, with even greater mass production. Tesla is likely adopting a dual-sourcing strategy: China for V3, the United States for V4.
This ramp-up will follow a precise roadmap…
From V3 to V4: Optimus’ Industrial Roadmap According to Musk
V3, the Transition Generation
Optimus V3 represents a complete redesign based on “first principles,” Musk’s cherished philosophy. The big innovation? Learning by observing human behavior.
Production on a pilot line means Tesla is entering a manufacturing learning phase. My interpretation: V3 is a small-scale industrial proof of concept, not yet the millions of units announced.
V4 and the “S” Learning Curve
Optimus V4 will be destined for Giga Texas, with an expanded production line. Musk anticipates an “S”-shaped learning curve: a slow ramp-up at first, then exponential.
What surprises me is Musk’s unusual realism about the difficulties: “it won’t be linear.” The goal of 1 million robots per year remains, but the horizon is likely post-2027.
Regarding commercialization, public availability could arrive as early as 2027. After seeing the ramp-up of Tesla Model 3 and Y across all continents, I know that Tesla masters mass industrialization… but humanoid robotics is another level of complexity.
Beyond technical prowess, the economic ambition is dizzying…
The Economic Stakes: Transforming US GDP with Robots
Musk doesn’t hide his ambitions: he talks about a potential impact on the US GDP itself. His vision? To create an economy of abundance through humanoid robots capable of working 24/7 without fatigue.
The target applications are multiple:
- Factories: assembly, logistics, handling
- Services: delivery, in-store assistance
- Domestic: home care, household chores
The target price remains unclear, but Musk mentions a cost “lower than that of a car.” If that’s true, we’re talking about a potentially gigantic market.
My critical take? I’ve learned to temper Musk’s timelines (Full Self-Driving, Cybertruck…). But I recognize that when Tesla truly commits, the results are there. The transition to electric seemed utopian 10 years ago, and yet.
Mass market commercialization in 2027 remains ambitious, but not impossible. Especially since the industrial robotics market is experiencing impressive growth, as shown by Tesla’s statements and recent sector analyses.
As a Tesla enthusiast, I find it fascinating to see the company pivot so radically. The Chinese announcement, the halt of Tesla Model S and Tesla Model X production, the V3/V4 roadmap… everything indicates that Tesla is betting everything on humanoid robotics.
It remains to be seen if China will be the cradle of this robotics revolution or if Giga Texas will take over with V4. One thing is certain: we are witnessing a historic turning point for the brand.
And you, would you buy an Optimus to help you daily? I will closely follow the official announcements, and I’ll keep you updated here on Tesliens!
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