Tesla

Planetary roller screws, a high-performance alternative to traditional ball screws, are becoming essential components in advanced humanoid robots due to their high load capacity and durability. Major developers like Tesla and Figure AI are adopting them, driving market growth, but high costs and complex manufacturing remain significant hurdles.

Executives from Agility Robotics and Apptronik discuss the drivers, challenges, and future outlook for humanoid robots. Key topics include labor shortages, AI integration, safety standards, deployment hurdles in workplaces vs. homes, and the path toward commercialization in logistics, manufacturing, and potentially eldercare.

Allen Zhu, a high-profile Chinese venture capitalist with GSR Ventures, has expressed skepticism about the near-term commercial viability of humanoid robots. He reportedly questions their cost-effectiveness compared to specialized automation and highlights the lack of a 'killer app,' suggesting mass adoption may be over a decade away.

Tesla showcased its Optimus humanoid robot on Capitol Hill this week as part of an event where U.S. robotics companies urged lawmakers to establish a national strategy to compete with global rivals, particularly China. Tesla representatives highlighted the need for manufacturing scale alongside innovation.

As the humanoid robotics race heats up, U.S. giants like Tesla face stiff competition from Chinese firms such as Unitree. Analysts warn that China's manufacturing prowess and supportive policies could enable it to dominate this transformative industry.