Chinese robotics stocks rise as Tesla reportedly launches audit for Optimus

Chinese robotic stocks experienced a rise on Friday following reports that Tesla Inc. had commenced a fresh series of production audits for its Optimus humanoid robot in China. Shenzhen Inovance Tech, a major supplier to humanoid robot manufacturers Unitree and UBTech, saw its shares increase by 1.4%. Additionally, other component makers such as Zhejiang Sanhua Intelligent Controls Co Ltd, Ningbo Tuopu Group Co Ltd, and Ningbo Joyson Electronic Corp, all suppliers to Tesla, saw gains of between 1% and 3%.

According to Chinese media, Tesla's robotics team recently visited Ningbo, where they initiated the production audits for the Optimus robot. The electric vehicle manufacturer appeared to be focusing on ensuring exclusivity and consistency for mass production, while also aiding in the transition of manufacturing capabilities from U.S. factories to Chinese suppliers. Tesla aims to produce approximately 50,000 Optimus units by 2026, and has already placed orders with supply chain companies, according to reports.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has outlined plans to accelerate Optimus production in the upcoming year, positioning the product as a flagship of Tesla's shift into artificial intelligence and robotics. The reports of the audit suggest that Tesla is making progress with its mass-production plans, five years after initially unveiling the Optimus concept.