Market News · Robotics · July 23, 2026
By the Bentley Equity Loans Team
Market & financial news desk
Market & financial news desk
Production of the third-generation Optimus humanoid robot has begun at Tesla Inc. (TSLA), with manufacturing lines installed at facilities including remade factory lines in Fremont, California. Chief Executive Elon Musk cautioned that the ramp will follow a long, flat initial S-curve.
The Supply Chain Problem
Musk said Tesla has had to insource much of the Optimus supply chain because no established one exists for humanoid robots. Partners including Samsung and TSMC are investing in AI compute for Optimus and robotaxi, and Tesla is working with Micron on memory allocation.
The Cost Question
The program is a significant driver of the spending that compressed operating margin to 1.4% in the quarter, making the pace of the ramp a central question for investors weighing Tesla's AI pivot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Tesla started producing Optimus?
Tesla Inc. (TSLA) said Optimus Gen 3 production has started, with lines installed, though CEO Elon Musk warned the manufacturing ramp will follow a long, flat initial curve.
What is slowing the Optimus ramp?
The absence of an existing supply chain for humanoid robots. Tesla has had to insource much of it, working with partners including Samsung, TSMC, and Micron.
How does Optimus affect Tesla's finances?
It is a significant driver of the elevated spending that helped compress operating margin to 1.4% in Q2 2026.
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