Tesla Motors CEO Elon Musk recently stated that computational power and energy supply for artificial intelligence will become the biggest challenges for technological advancement. He noted that if the United States "lacks breakthrough innovations," China will "completely dominate" fields such as artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, and humanoid robotics.

These remarks were made during a recent three-hour podcast interview, where Musk discussed artificial intelligence, manufacturing, humanoid robots, and the evolving technological competition between China and the U.S.

Musk commented, "China is highly advanced in manufacturing. There are only a few areas where they still lag." He described China as "a manufacturing powerhouse operating at a higher level."

Using ore refining as an example, he estimated that China's ore processing volume is roughly twice that of the rest of the world combined. Musk pointed out that China's population is about four times that of the U.S. and emphasized its stronger work ethic, stating, "We certainly can't compete in terms of human resources, but in robotics, we might have a chance."

Musk highlighted the strategic importance of humanoid robots in manufacturing, particularly in continuous, 24/7 industrial operations. "Initially, the most practical robots will be used in any continuous production process—any round-the-clock operation—because that’s where they can work nonstop," he explained.

He also suggested that electricity output is a reasonable indicator of economic performance. Musk estimated that China's electricity production will exceed that of the U.S. by more than three times, implying that China's industrial capacity is approximately three times greater.

Musk added that virtually every product will contain Chinese components, given that China's refining volume is double that of the rest of the world. "They will then use these processed materials to produce final goods like automobiles. China is a formidable nation," he remarked.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Tesla Motors announced plans to invest over $200 billion by 2026 in a series of projects, including AI computing capacity, robotics factories, the Cybercab initiative, energy storage, and charging infrastructure.

Tesla Vice President Tao Lin indicated that this budget of over $200 billion applies to Tesla's global operations. While specific details regarding China have not yet been disclosed, the strategic direction is clear: increased investment in AI software and hardware, as well as energy-related technologies. She also mentioned that Tesla has already established specialized local training centers in China, dedicated to the localization and fine-tuning of Tesla’s intelligent driver-assistance systems.