### Tesla's Optimus Program Faces Leadership Shake-Up as Milan Kovac Exits Milan Kovac, the head of Tesla's Optimus humanoid robot program, has announced his departure from the company after nine years. His exit raises questions about the future of the ambitious project, which is seen as a key component of Tesla's long-term strategy. Kovac's resignation is attributed to personal reasons, specifically a desire to spend more time with family abroad. Ashok Elluswamy, who currently leads Tesla's Autopilot teams, will take over the responsibilities of the Optimus program following Kovac's departure. This transition comes at a critical time as Tesla aims to advance its humanoid robot initiative, which is projected to be a significant market opportunity valued at $25 trillion [https://electrek.co/2025/06/06/tesla-head-optimus-humanoid-robot-leaves-the-25-trillion-product]. ### Key Aspects of the Leadership Change 1. **Milan Kovac's Departure**: - Kovac has been with Tesla for nine years and has played a pivotal role in the development of the Optimus humanoid robot program. His resignation is primarily due to personal commitments [https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45826839/elon-musks-tesla-optimus-robot-program-head-milan-kovac-steps-down]. 2. **Ashok Elluswamy's New Role**: - Elluswamy, who has been leading Tesla's Autopilot teams, will now oversee the Optimus program. This change aims to maintain continuity in leadership during a crucial phase of development [https://www.business-standard.com/world-news/tesla-s-head-of-optimus-humanoid-robot-programme-milan-kovac-exits-company-125060700180_1.html]. 3. **Impact on the Optimus Program**: - Kovac's exit injects uncertainty into the future of the Optimus project, which is already facing production and geopolitical challenges. The leadership change could affect the program's momentum and strategic direction [https://www.indexbox.io/blog/teslas-optimus-program-faces-uncertainty-after-leadership-change]. 4. **Kovac's Legacy and Future Prospects**: - In his farewell message, Kovac expressed gratitude towards Elon Musk for his mentorship and support during his tenure. His departure marks a significant transition for the program, which is expected to play a vital role in Tesla's future business endeavors [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/technology/tech-news/tesla-optimus-chief-milan-kovac-resigns-thanks-elon-musk-in-his-farewell-post-on-twitter-you-have-taught-me-to/articleshow/121690310.cms]. ### Evidence of the Transition's Significance - **Market Potential**: The humanoid robot market is projected to be worth **$25 trillion**, highlighting the importance of the Optimus program in Tesla's strategic vision [https://electrek.co/2025/06/06/tesla-head-optimus-humanoid-robot-leaves-the-25-trillion-product]. - **Leadership Stability**: The transition to Ashok Elluswamy is intended to provide stability and continuity, which is crucial for maintaining investor confidence and project momentum [https://www.business-standard.com/world-news/tesla-s-head-of-optimus-humanoid-robot-programme-milan-kovac-exits-company-125060700180_1.html]. - **Challenges Ahead**: The Optimus program faces production hurdles and geopolitical challenges that could impact its development timeline and market entry [https://www.indexbox.io/blog/teslas-optimus-program-faces-uncertainty-after-leadership-change]. ### Conclusion: Navigating Uncertainty in Tesla's Optimus Program In summary, **Milan Kovac's resignation from Tesla's Optimus program introduces a period of uncertainty** for a project that is central to the company's future ambitions. The leadership transition to Ashok Elluswamy aims to mitigate potential disruptions, but the program must navigate significant challenges ahead. 1. **Kovac's departure highlights personal commitments over professional pursuits**. 2. **Elluswamy's appointment is a strategic move to ensure continuity**. 3. **The future of the Optimus program remains uncertain amid production and geopolitical challenges**. 4. **Kovac's legacy and the program's potential market impact underscore the importance of effective leadership during this transition**. The coming months will be critical in determining the trajectory of Tesla's humanoid robot initiative and its role in the broader market landscape [https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-06-06/tesla-s-leader-of-optimus-humanoid-robot-program-leaves-company].