Tesla rises over 4% on Model Y sales, boosted by Optimus robot

Tesla rises over 4% on Model Y sales, boosted by Optimus robot

Tesla (TSLA) shares rose by over 4% on September 12, 2025, following strong Model Y sales in China and the company's strategic pivot towards humanoid robots. The stock's performance was bolstered by a surge in orders for the Model Y L, Tesla's latest variant of its best-selling crossover, which has seen extended delivery times due to high demand .

The Model Y L, featuring an extended wheelbase and a six-seat configuration, has become a hit among Chinese buyers. The new variant, priced at RMB 339,900 (approximately C$66,200 or US$47,700), offers increased interior space and premium features, making it an attractive option for families .

Moreover, Tesla's announcement of the Optimus humanoid robot program has added to the company's valuation. CEO Elon Musk predicted that Optimus robots could account for approximately 80% of Tesla's future market value, with the global humanoid robot market projected to reach $5-7 trillion by 2050 . Musk's ambitious plan includes producing one million Optimus units annually within five years, targeting both consumer and commercial markets .

While Tesla faces competition from Chinese companies like Unitree and X-Humanoid, the company's AI expertise and manufacturing scale advantages position it well in the robotics market . However, some analysts question whether Tesla can meet Musk's ambitious timeline, given past project delays .

Despite the challenges, the combination of strong Model Y sales and the Optimus robot announcement has driven investor confidence in Tesla's long-term prospects, leading to a significant increase in the stock's value.