In the latest video, Elon Musk and his company Tesla showcase the humanoid robot Optimus’s impressive ability to navigate rough terrain without falling.
The video, shared by Tesla on X on December 10, shows Optimus moving across steep, gravel-covered terrain. Although its walking style may not appear entirely natural yet, the robot’s balance is noteworthy, as it can ascend and descend slopes with ease. Even when stepping on rocks or slippery surfaces, the robot remains stable.
Elon Musk later reposted the video with the message: “Optimus can traverse highly variable terrain by using a neural network to control its limbs.”
Optimus’s balancing ability while moving over rugged terrain. (Video: X/Tesla)
The video has garnered over 46 million views within a day, along with more than 2,000 comments. Most viewers expressed their admiration for Tesla’s machine and predicted that the robot would be commercialized sooner than expected. Others compared it to Boston Dynamics’ Atlas robot, known for its excellent balancing capabilities.
Milan Kovac, Vice President of Engineering for Optimus, pointed out that technically, the robot cannot “see.” This means that the machine maintains its balance without recording and analyzing images of the surrounding terrain. He revealed that he was present on the testing hill and slipped in the area where Optimus walked.
Kovac mentioned on Teslarati that the research team plans to integrate new AI features, including Tesla Vision—a semi-autonomous driving system based on the existing cameras on Tesla vehicles. The team is also looking to implement additional improvements, such as making the robot’s gait more natural on rough terrain, enhancing its response to commands like speed and direction, and learning how to minimize damage and recover after falling.
Optimus robot navigating steep, gravel-covered terrain.
Tesla announced Optimus in 2021 and unveiled its first prototype in 2022, which stands 173 cm tall and weighs 57 kg, equipped with a screen on its face to display information. Over the past two years, Musk has begun to realize the humanoid robot and has achieved certain milestones, such as the ability to fold clothes, practice yoga, and autonomously navigate within Tesla’s factory. In October, this robot made its public debut, although it was later claimed that it was being remotely controlled.
Previously, Elon Musk stated that Tesla would start mass production of Optimus in 2026, aiming to deliver the first units “before 2027.” The company has already begun utilizing Optimus for simple tasks in its factory, such as sorting battery cells on the production line.
