Tesla’s Vice President of the Optimus humanoid robot program, Milan Kovac, has departed the company after nearly a decade, raising questions about the future direction of one of the automaker’s most ambitious initiatives. Kovac’s exit comes just months after CEO Elon Musk publicly claimed the Optimus robot could eventually generate $10 trillion in annual revenue and transform Tesla into a $25 trillion company.
Kovac, who cited personal reasons for his departure, had been instrumental in leading development for Tesla’s robotics division. He stepped into the Optimus program in 2022 after several years working on Autopilot and machine learning. Last year, he was promoted to oversee the full Optimus effort as Musk increasingly highlighted the humanoid robot as a centerpiece of Tesla’s long-term strategy. His departure adds to a broader trend of high-profile engineering exits at Tesla.
Although Tesla has demonstrated recent technical progress with Optimus, skepticism remains about the feasibility of Musk’s revenue claims. Industry analysts currently estimate the total addressable humanoid robot market to be valued in the low billions, with projections reaching $15 billion to $80 billion by 2032—far below Tesla’s forecasts.
Tesla is not alone in the humanoid robot race. In China, robotics firm Unitree has already begun selling humanoid robots, while U.S.-based Figure is also making strides in the space. As more manufacturers invest in this emerging segment, competition is expected to intensify.
While Optimus remains in development and internal demonstrations continue, some industry observers have questioned the transparency of Tesla’s progress, particularly regarding the use of teleoperation in public showcases.
Kovac originally joined Tesla in 2016 to work on its early Autopilot program, leveraging a background in machine learning. He rose rapidly through the company’s ranks, eventually becoming one of its most respected technical leaders. His departure leaves a gap in leadership at a time when Tesla is attempting to redefine its identity beyond electric vehicles.
