Musk: Chinese AI companies making significant progress in large language models and humanoid robotics

In a recent interview with China Central Television (CCTV) on September 23, Tesla CEO Elon Musk shared his latest thoughts on China's market, cutting-edge technologies, and future collaboration opportunities. Musk's observations on China—from deepening his company's presence in the market and expanding electric vehicle production to praising the country's progress in artificial intelligence and humanoid robotics—have consistently drawn widespread attention.

Deepening Roots in China: "China Speed" at the Gigafactory

In July of this year, Tesla produced its 10 millionth electric vehicle, becoming the first automaker globally to surpass the 10-million-unit milestone in cumulative pure EV production.

From the launch of the first Roadster prototype in 2006 to the 10 millionth vehicle rolling off the assembly line, Tesla has come a long way in 20 years. China has played a pivotal role in the company's steadily rising production journey.

Tesla's Shanghai Gigafactory (File photo)

Construction of Tesla's Shanghai Gigafactory began in January 2019, achieving "groundbreaking, completion, production, and market launch all within the same year." Since deliveries started at the end of 2019, the factory has produced over 4.5 million vehicles, accounting for more than 45% of Tesla's global total output. It serves as Tesla's largest export hub worldwide, continuously supplying both the Chinese and international markets.

During the interview, Musk noted that the success of the Shanghai Gigafactory would not have been possible without the Chinese team. He described the team as highly talented, with top-tier product quality and exceptional production efficiency.

Recommending China Again: "If Time Permits, You Must Visit China"

Musk has previously stated on social media: "China is great. I strongly recommend everyone go and see it."

In this interview, he once again expressed his fondness for China, urging others to visit. "If time is limited, at least go to Shanghai and Beijing," he said.

"I usually suggest that if time allows, you must go to China and see it. There are so many things worth seeing," Musk added, recalling his experience riding China's high-speed rail. "The experience was fantastic, and the high-speed rail stations are spectacular."

Xi'an: Aerial view of the Xi'an-Shiyan high-speed railway along the Qinling Mountains (File photo)

Musk's attention extends beyond China's rapidly changing landscape to its continuous technological innovations.

In recent years, Chinese AI companies have been steadily advancing large language model iterations, while humanoid robotics technology has made significant progress. Musk has repeatedly shared images and videos of Chinese humanoid robots and has commented that Chinese AI companies "are very likely to become leaders at some point in the future."

In the interview, Musk shared his thoughts on what advantages in China's development support his assessment, which humanoid robot advancements impressed him most, and his expectations for future applications of technologies such as Cybercab, which have garnered widespread attention in China.