The first uncrewed launch to Mars is expected to happen in 2026, and Musk said a Tesla Optimus robot is expected to arrive in 2027. Musk said the first humans should land on Mars by 2028.

As recently as April, Tesla said it would begin production of its mysterious new "affordable" EVs in the first half of 2025.

The electric-vehicle maker has an aging lineup and slumping sales, but its CEO has shifted his focus to robotaxis and robots.