When Elon Musk first introduced Tesla’s humanoid robot, Optimus, in 2021, he painted a futuristic vision of a life-sized, artificially intelligent helper. While the full-scale robot remains in development, Tesla has launched a more accessible version for fans—a seven-inch action figure that has become an instant hit.
The Tesla Bot Action Figure, priced at $40 (approximately £32), went on sale on Saturday and sold out within 24 hours. As of Monday, Tesla’s website lists the item as unavailable, allowing interested customers only to sign up for notifications about potential restocks. The rapid sell-out has already created a booming resale market, with listings on platforms like eBay reaching prices of up to $1,300 (approximately £1,000).
A miniature futuristic companion
Tesla describes the action figure as “Your mini autonomous assistant and humanoid friend.” Designed to replicate the aesthetics of the company’s Gen 2 humanoid robot, the 1:10-scale collectible has captured the imagination of fans and collectors alike.
The action figure features over 40 individually engineered components and boasts 20 points of articulation, enabling it to mimic human-like movements. Along with the figure, buyers receive a charging stand and a “CyberHammer” accessory, adding a playful yet tech-forward touch to the product.
Tesla fans are eager to get their hands on the action figure, which has become a hot commodity for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its intricate design and association with Tesla’s futuristic vision make it a standout item in the merchandise market.
A booming resale market
The overwhelming demand for the Tesla Bot Action Figure has spawned a lucrative secondary market. On eBay, listings range from $130 (£100) to an eye-watering $1,300 (£1,000), underscoring the figure’s desirability and rarity.
Collectors are scrambling to secure their own piece of Tesla’s technological future, even as it remains unclear when—or if—the action figure will be restocked. Tesla has not provided a timeline for restocking, nor has it confirmed how long it will take to deliver figures already purchased.
From toy to reality: The future of Tesla’s Humanoid Robots
The action figure may offer a scaled-down glimpse of Tesla’s vision for humanoid robotics, but many are still eager to see when the real-life Optimus robot will become available.
During a July earnings call, Musk revealed that Tesla aims to begin limited production of its full-sized Optimus robot early next year. However, this initial batch will be used internally at Tesla to refine the technology and address any issues.
“We expect to have several thousand Optimus robots produced and doing useful things by the end of next year in the Tesla factories,” Musk stated. The billionaire entrepreneur added that mass production for external customers is expected to ramp up in 2026, with the second version of Optimus becoming commercially available at that point.
The Optimus robot is designed to take on repetitive or physically demanding tasks, reducing reliance on human labour. Tesla envisions a future where humanoid robots perform a range of duties, from assembly line work to more complex functions, in both industrial and domestic settings.
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The appeal of Tesla Merchandise
Tesla’s merchandise has consistently generated buzz, from its branded apparel to lifestyle products like the Cyberwhistle and now the Tesla Bot Action Figure. Each release not only bolsters Tesla’s branding but also strengthens the connection between the company and its devoted fanbase.
The Tesla Bot Action Figure serves as both a collectible and a symbol of the company’s broader ambitions in robotics and artificial intelligence. It is a tangible link to the future Tesla envisions, where technology and human life are seamlessly integrated.
Will the hype continue?
The sell-out success of the Tesla Bot Action Figure reflects both the brand’s immense popularity and the public’s fascination with cutting-edge robotics. For now, fans eager to join the wave of buyers will have to wait patiently for restocks or contend with soaring resale prices.
As Tesla moves closer to releasing full-scale humanoid robots, the excitement surrounding its futuristic products is only set to grow. Whether it’s a seven-inch action figure or a five-foot-eight humanoid assistant, Tesla’s vision of the future continues to capture imaginations worldwide.
