As we move into 2026, the rivalry between Xpeng and Tesla has shifted from electric vehicles to the next frontier: humanoid robotics. Both companies are targeting mass production, but their strategies reveal distinct visions for the future of labor.
Xpeng Iron: The Anthropomorphic Approach
Xpeng’s Iron is entering mass production by the end of 2026. Unlike purely industrial robots, Iron features a biomimetic spine, flexible outer skin, and a 3D curved display for human interaction. Powered by solid-state batteries and the Turing AI chip, Iron is already patrolling Xpeng’s own factories and showrooms. With 22 degrees of freedom in its hands, it’s designed for tasks requiring both precision and a ‘human touch.’
Tesla Optimus: Industrial Might
Tesla’s Optimus Gen 3 is slated for a Q1 2026 debut. While Elon Musk emphasizes its potential for home use, the immediate focus remains on Tesla’s internal manufacturing. Optimus Gen 3 prioritizes efficiency and industrial scaling, with Tesla converting its Fremont factory to produce up to 1 million units annually. The Gen 3 model features improved hand dexterity and deeper integration with Tesla’s FSD-derived AI software.
The Race to 1 Million
The goal for both giants is clear: reaching a production scale of 1 million units per year by 2030. Whether the world prefers Xpeng’s interactive ‘human-like’ assistants or Tesla’s ‘factory-first’ workers will define the next decade of the robotics revolution.