Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
Meet Ashok Elluswamy, The AI Architect Now Leading Tesla's Optimus Program
In the wake of Milan Kovac's departure, Ashok Elluswamy, a seasoned leader in AI software, has been appointed to lead Tesla's Optimus project. This initiative aims to develop and deploy humanoid robots on a large scale, a key objective for CEO Elon Musk. Elluswamy's extensive experience in artificial intelligence positions him as a pivotal figure in advancing this ambitious vision. As Tesla continues to push the boundaries of technology, Elluswamy's leadership will be crucial in navigating the challenges associated with bringing humanoid robots to market.
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Abundance and the Bitter Lesson: Ashok Elluswamy Outlines Tesla’s Unified AI Future
At the 2026 ScaledML Conference, Tesla's Vice President of AI Software presented the company's comprehensive strategy for achieving full autonomy in its vehicles. The presentation highlighted the innovative use of a singular generative "world simulator" that underpins both the driverless taxi operations in Austin and the development of humanoid robots in Fremont. This approach aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of Tesla's autonomous systems by creating a unified platform for simulation and training. The conference served as a significant platform for Tesla to showcase its advancements in artificial intelligence and automation technology, emphasizing the company's commitment to pioneering autonomous solutions in urban transportation and robotics.
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Tesla AI Chief Details Unified 'World Simulator' for FSD and Optimus
In a recent technical deep-dive, Ashok Elluswamy, Tesla's Vice President of AI and the lead for the Optimus project, unveiled the company's comprehensive neural network strategy for its Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology. During the presentation, Elluswamy confirmed that the same "neural world simulator" and underlying architecture utilized for FSD will be adapted for Tesla's humanoid robot, Optimus. This development highlights Tesla's commitment to integrating advanced AI capabilities across its product lines, aiming to enhance the functionality and efficiency of both autonomous vehicles and robotics. The announcement underscores the company's innovative approach to AI, which is expected to play a pivotal role in the future of transportation and automation.
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Tesla Optimus Shows Off Kung Fu Moves, as AI Lead Highlights Unified Self-Driving Brain
Tesla's humanoid robot, Optimus, showcased its capabilities in a recent video by engaging in a sparring match with a human, revealing impressive speed and fluidity. The demonstration, which has garnered attention for its innovative approach to robotics, was accompanied by insights from Ashok Elluswamy, the lead for the Optimus project. He emphasized the company's strategic initiative to integrate the artificial intelligence models used for Optimus with those powering Tesla's self-driving vehicles. This move aims to enhance the functionality and efficiency of both technologies, reflecting Tesla's commitment to advancing AI in various applications.
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Tesla's Optimus Program Sees Leadership Change as VP Milan Kovac Departs
Milan Kovac, the Vice President responsible for Tesla's Optimus humanoid robot program, is set to leave the company amid ambitious plans by CEO Elon Musk to deploy "thousands" of Optimus units in factories this year. Kovac's departure raises questions about the future direction of the project, which aims to integrate advanced robotics into Tesla's manufacturing processes. Ashok Elluswamy, currently serving as Vice President of AI software for Autopilot, is anticipated to succeed Kovac and lead the Optimus initiative moving forward. This transition comes at a critical time as Tesla seeks to enhance its production capabilities and innovate within the robotics sector.
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