Hugging Face launches Affordable Open-source Humanoids to Rival Tesla
Hugging Face has introduced two new robots, including a groundbreaking humanoid named HopeJR. Developed in collaboration with French robotics firm The Robot Studio, HopeJR is an open-source robot expected to sell for just $3,000. This price point stands out, especially when compared to rivals like Unitree’s G1, which costs $16,000, or Tesla’s Optimus Gen 2, projected to be priced at $20,000 or more.
What makes HopeJR even more significant is its accessibility. Because it is open source, individuals and developers alike can build, modify, and explore how the robot functions. This contrasts sharply with the “black-box” approach used by many large tech companies. Hugging Face CEO Clem Delangue emphasized that affordability and transparency are essential to preventing robotics from becoming monopolized by a few powerful corporations.
A Democratized Future for Robotics
This announcement arrives during a surge in interest around robotics, largely driven by recent advancements in generative AI. As new models improve, companies are exploring ways to embed intelligence into real-world machines. Still, the field faces hurdles. For example, robots often suffer from limited battery life Unitree’s G1 reportedly lasts only two hours on a full charge.
In contrast, HopeJR brings more than affordability to the table. It boasts over 66 actuated degrees of freedom, giving it advanced mobility and manipulation skills. This means the robot can walk, grasp, and interact with its surroundings in ways that could eventually make it useful in both research and home environments.
Built by Experts, Ready for Exploration
Remi Cadene, a principal research scientist at Hugging Face, led development on HopeJR. Interestingly, Cadene previously contributed to Tesla’s Optimus humanoid project, giving him unique insight into both the technical and commercial aspects of humanoid robotics. While many robots remain locked within proprietary systems, HopeJR offers a rare opportunity for open innovation.
Though challenges persist, Hugging Face’s new humanoid may signal a shift in who gets to shape the future of robotics. By combining open-source principles with practical design, the company is inviting a broader community to participate in what could be a transformative technological era.
