
Thu Feb 26 09:10:00 UTC 2026: # Tesla Repurposes Factory for Optimus Robot Production, Echoing Apple’s iPhone Transformation
The Story:
Tesla is shifting its focus beyond electric vehicles by repurposing a U.S. factory to mass-produce its Optimus humanoid robots, according to a February 25, 2026 report by The Motley Fool. The move is reminiscent of Apple’s introduction of the iPhone, which revolutionized the company’s business model. While the potential of Optimus is substantial, concerns remain about whether the current stock price reflects the company’s AI prospects, especially given recent deceleration in Tesla’s electric vehicle segment.
Key Points:
- Tesla will repurpose its Fremont, California, facility for Optimus robot production, winding down Model S and X production.
- Initial Optimus production is projected to begin by the end of 2026.
- Tesla aims to sell Optimus robots and offer subscription-based access to its proprietary autonomous system software.
- Tesla’s electric vehicle segment is experiencing deceleration, impacting revenue and cash flow.
- The author suggests investors should wait to see if Musk’s production timeline is met before investing in TSLA, citing the stock’s potential to plummet.
Key Takeaways:
- Tesla is making a strategic pivot towards robotics, similar to Apple’s shift from computers to consumer electronics with the iPhone.
- The success of Optimus is crucial for Tesla’s future growth, as the electric vehicle market decelerates.
- The current stock price may be inflated by hype surrounding the AI opportunity, posing a risk for investors.
- Meeting the production timeline for Optimus is critical to maintaining investor confidence.
- Tesla aims to create a recurring revenue stream through subscription services for Optimus, mirroring Apple’s success with iPhone services.