Elon Musk's focus on humanoid robots contrasts with China's rapid advancements in the field. While Tesla's Optimus isn't yet on the market, Chinese companies are set to dominate production starting in 2026, driven by government support and addressing workforce challenges. However, the sector faces risks of an investment bubble and technological hurdles.

In 2025, nearly 90% of humanoid robots sold globally were from China, with companies like Unitree and Agibot leading the market. While Tesla and other American firms lag behind, analysts note that China's advantage stems from strong state support and a robust supply chain. The humanoid robotics market is projected to grow significantly, reaching $38 billion by 2035.