New Startup Aims to Revolutionize Warehouse Automation with Humanoid Robots
- Mytra Zareian, former head of Tesla's humanoid project, has launched a robotics startup called Mytra.
- The stealthy company has already piqued interest from notable players, securing a pilot project with Albertsons, a major grocery chain.
- This venture marks an evolution in the robotics industry, reflecting growing collaborations between tech and retail sectors.
A new startup, founded by veterans from leading electric vehicle companies like Tesla and Rivian, is entering the competitive warehouse automation sector, which has gained momentum since the pandemic disrupted global supply chains. The market is crowded with established players such as Amazon, Locus, and Zebra/Fetch, all vying for dominance in this rapidly evolving field. The startup's focus on bipedal humanoid robots aims to address the growing demand for innovative automation solutions. Leading the charge is Walti, a former Tesla engineer who spent seven years developing automation systems, including the autonomous mobile robot (AMR) solutions that contributed to Tesla's Optimus project. His experience at Tesla highlighted the challenges of integrating automation into existing systems, particularly the need for robots capable of handling heavy payloads—up to 3,000 pounds. Walti's team was instrumental in overcoming these hurdles, ultimately making humanoid robots a top priority for Tesla. Despite his optimism about the future of humanoid robots in various industries, Walti acknowledges that significant advancements are still needed before they can make a substantial impact on production floors. The startup differentiates itself from competitors by emphasizing its robots' ability to manage heavy loads and their dynamic capabilities, which Walti describes as the most kinematically free system conceived to date. Currently, the startup is piloting its technology with grocery giant Albertsons and has secured interest from several Fortune 50 companies, indicating a promising future for its innovative approach to warehouse automation.