Tesla audits Chinese suppliers to accelerate Optimus robot production

Tesla engineers have conducted a series of supplier audits in China’s Yangtze River Delta region, including Ningbo, Shanghai, and Hangzhou, to prepare for the mass production of the Optimus humanoid robot.

Reports indicate that Tesla has moved several Chinese manufacturers from provisional status to certified mass production partners. Key suppliers identified include Tuopu Group, which handles actuators and chassis components; Zhejiang Sanhua Intelligent Controls, specializing in thermal management; and Ningbo Joyson Electronic, a sensor supplier. These companies already possess established manufacturing bases within Tesla’s existing electric vehicle supply chain.

Tesla is reportedly targeting significant production milestones, with some reports suggesting a goal of producing approximately 5,000 units initially. While Elon Musk has noted that early production may be slow, the company is working toward converting factory space, such as at the Fremont facility, to dedicated humanoid production lines. Commercial sales of Optimus are projected for the second half of 2027, though production and deployment in Tesla factories are expected to begin much sooner.