Tesla Stock is Cratering, But This Move Could Turn Things Around. Musk Says: ‘There Will Be a Legion of Optimus Robots This Year’

Tesla (TSLA)’s stock has cratered in recent weeks, dragged down by disappointing Q1 vehicle deliveries, mounting global competition, and a wave of negative press tied to CEO Elon Musk’s increasingly controversial political entanglements. But just as sentiment around Tesla reaches a new low, Musk is once again turning the spotlight — and investor hopes — to something entirely different: robots.

“There will be a legion of Optimus robots this year,” Musk posted on X on Wednesday, April 2. “The rate of improvement is indeed rapid.”

It was a typically understated bombshell from the Tesla CEO — a hint that the company’s humanoid robot, Optimus, could be preparing for mass deployment in 2025. Once considered a moonshot side project, Optimus is now shaping up to be the wildcard that might just help pull Tesla out of its downward spiral. 

A Rough Ride for Tesla

Tesla reported just 336,681 global vehicle deliveries in Q1 2025 — a 16% decline from the same period last year. The drop underscores the company’s struggle to maintain demand as its product lineup ages and competition in the EV space intensifies, particularly from Chinese automakers like BYD.

Adding to the pressure, Musk’s growing political involvement — including recent gestures of support for President Donald Trump — has alienated portions of Tesla’s consumer base, especially in Europe. Vandalism at Tesla showrooms and a growing #BoycottTesla movement have added to the company’s brand woes.

JPMorgan analysts recently slashed their profit forecasts for Tesla, citing “unprecedented brand damage.” Meanwhile, tensions between the U.S. and China have further complicated matters, with China imposing steep tariffs on U.S. EV imports — cutting deeply into what was once Tesla’s most lucrative international market.

The Optimus Play

But amid the chaos, Musk is betting on Optimus to be more than just a PR distraction.

Originally unveiled in 2022, Optimus has evolved from a clunky prototype into a functional factory assistant. Tesla claims the robot is now performing basic manufacturing tasks in its own facilities — walking autonomously, lifting parts, and even conducting quality checks.

Musk has hinted that Optimus will soon move beyond internal use and into external sales, starting with industrial partners in logistics and manufacturing. The long-term vision? Millions of humanoid robots handling everything from warehouse fulfillment to elder care.

Some analysts remain deeply skeptical, calling it a high-risk pivot at a time when Tesla can least afford it. But others see it as a classic Tesla moment — doubling down on disruptive tech in the face of adversity.

Humanoid Hope

For now, the company remains on shaky ground. But in typical Musk fashion, Tesla’s fate may once again hinge on making the improbable a reality. And if that legion of robots does materialize, Optimus might not just be Tesla’s boldest play yet — it might be its only shot at redemption.