Leaked Photos From Tesla Show the “Alien Robots” That Will Build Model 3s

Alien Robots

Tesla "hired" its first robots back in 2014 to be used as part of a dedicated production center for the Model S. These robots, developed by German industrial manufacturer Kuka Robotics, are also responsible for the Model X and Tesla's energy product line. Now, photos leaked by someone who claims they work as a Field Service Engineer at Kuka Robotics posted by a user in SoutheastTraders forum show an army of Kuka robots ready to be shipped out.

These new Kuka robots —quirkily named after X-Men superheroes — will be responsible for several Model 3 production line duties, including: spot welding, laser welding, handling, and loading materials, and various other tasks. The Kuka robots are part of what CEO Elon Musk previously called an “alien dreadnought” that will be tasked with building the Model 3. According to the person who posted the photos, the robots will be at the Tesla factory for the next 7 weeks to “help set up and commission 467 robots and 21 KL slides."

Tesla users who toured the factory confirmed sightings of these "alien" robots. "[T]here is an enormous area of the factory where the Model 3 assembly line is being built," said an owner from the Tesla Motors Club (Engle). "There are Kuka robots all over the place waiting to be installed."

Bringing EVs To More People

Tesla and Musk have long seen the value of automation in its factory production lines. As Tesla's highly-anticipated Model 3 electric vehicle is slated to begin low volume production by July, these robots — which cost between $50,000 to $500,000 — will be essential. Supposedly, Tesla spent more than $50 million on them — and the additional $1.4B capital raised in March certainly helped cover the cost.

As a less costly EV, the Model 3 is Tesla's attempt to bring autonomous and green vehicles within the reach of more people. Research has indicated that autonomous vehicles are already saving lives, and helping the environment. Now it's just a matter of getting them on the road.