Tesla to discontinue Model S and Model X for Optimus robots

Before the very popular Tesla Model 3 and Model Y made the headlines, there were the Model S and the Model X. These two luxury cars were essentially what gave the American electric automaker a foothold in the market. Unfortunately, it seems that it’s time for the automaker to cancel these two models to make space for the production of its humanoid robot, Optimus.

During an earnings call with investors, its current CEO, Elon Musk, stated that “It’s time to basically bring the Model S and X programs to an end with an honorable discharge, because we’re really moving into a future that is based on autonomy, so if you’re interested in buying a Model S and X, now would be the time to order it.”

The Model S was first introduced back in 2012, with the Model X following in 2015. These cars are exclusively produced in the Fremont factory, which is why only specific markets see them outside of America. That factory also produces other models, such as the Model 3, Model Y, and the Cybertruck.

These two luxury models boasted insane acceleration times, range, and even in the case of the Model X, the option to carry six or seven people, and unique gullwing doors that gave it its identity. It seems that the mainstream market Model 3 and Model Y will take their place, with the latter now having the option for seven seats.

The automaker plans to utilize the production lines meant for the Model S and Model X for its humanoid robots, which it says can produce up to 1 million Optimus robots annually. This is part of the automaker’s plan to transition to an autonomy and robotics company.

Granted, it’s sad that markets like ours will never get the chance to officially get them on sale, but at least we can see the direction of the company, and this also potentially means that the Model 3 and Y will get improvements and maybe have upmarket trims in the future to fill in the gaps left by these two luxury models.

^{Photos from Tesla and Sam Surla}