Tesla’s shares advanced 3.2% in morning trading on Monday, lifting the stock to $359.85, as investors responded to two company-specific developments. The advance occurred against a backdrop of declines in broader U.S. equity benchmarks, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite down on the session.
The company confirmed that its Optimus humanoid robot has entered production at the Fremont, California facility, using existing Model S and Model X assembly lines. Initial units will be deployed internally through Tesla’s closed-loop learning program, the Optimus Academy, to enhance manufacturing efficiency. The announcement follows prior demonstrations of the robot’s capabilities and signals a step toward scaling automation within Tesla’s operations.
Separately, Tesla launched a simplified rear-wheel-drive version of the Model 3 in Hong Kong and Macau, priced from approximately $26,000. The new entry-level variant represents an 8.5% reduction from the prior lowest-priced Model 3 in the region, aiming to broaden Tesla’s addressable market amid competitive pressure in Asia. The move aligns with Tesla’s strategy to expand unit volumes and market penetration in key international markets.
The stock’s gains contrasted with weakness among other electric vehicle manufacturers. Rivian and Lucid Group both declined, reflecting sector-specific headwinds despite Tesla’s advances. Analysts noted that the day’s movement appeared driven by company-specific catalysts rather than broader EV sector momentum. Earlier in the year, Tesla’s operating margin compressed sharply, contributing to investor caution around capital expenditure and trade policy risks.
Tesla also reiterated plans for a dedicated investor event on September 24 focused on its Semi electric truck, though no additional details were provided regarding timing or production updates for the heavy-duty vehicle.
