Part 6/14:
However, he emphasizes that the value of Optimus isn't just in cost but in what it offers. For instance, a robot capable of working "three times as many hours per week" as a human employee earning over $100,000 means the robot could be a "$300,000 asset" for less, effectively boosting productivity and profitability. This points to a future where robots are not just tools but transformative assets capable of automating labor-intensive tasks at a fraction of human costs.
The Critical Role of Hands and Form Factor
A core engineering challenge discussed is replicating the human hand, which Musk describes as "incredibly sophisticated". The human hand's versatility— capable of threading a needle, playing instruments, or disassembling machinery—sets a high bar for robotic design.