Germany's 'Young Elon' looks up to Musk but aims to surpass his Tesla robot.

      David Reger, the founder and CEO of Neura Robotics in Munich, is developing humanoid robots while gaining a reputation reminiscent of déjà vu. In German media, he is occasionally referred to as the "Young Elon Musk."

      Reger accepts this nickname, viewing it positively despite the surrounding controversies linked to the world's wealthiest individual. “To me, it’s a compliment, not a criticism,” he expressed in an interview with TNW. “I admire Musk’s approach to building companies, his success, and his bravery in pushing boundaries.”

      RegerClarifies that it's not Musk's politics that he finds admirable. “I focus on technological progress and accelerating its advancement, and I appreciate Musk for that.”

      Similar to Musk, Reger is focused on speed. Established in 2019, Neura has swiftly emerged as one of Europe's most well-funded robotics startups, boasting over 600 employees. The company has already launched several robots, including a robotic arm for manufacturing and a robot designed for carrying loads. In the upcoming month, Neura will reveal the third generation of the 4NE-1 robot, which it claims will be the most advanced humanoid robot in the world.

      The 4NE-1, as its name suggests, is intended for general use. This human-like robot is crafted to perform tasks at home, such as folding laundry, as well as working in warehouses, like stacking boxes.

      The current iteration of the 4NE-1 stands at 180cm tall, weighs approximately 80kg, and can lift objects weighing up to 15kg. However, with a maximum speed of 3km/h, it is somewhat slow. The performance enhancements expected in the third generation will be unveiled soon.

      Reger indicates that what differentiates this humanoid is its cognitive features. “It can touch, think, and respond in a manner similar to humans,” he noted.

      This capability is attributed to a system of sensors and cameras integrated throughout its body, providing real-time data to an AI system that interprets surroundings and makes quick decisions.

      The third generation of 4NE-1 is set to include a greater number of sensors than other humanoids, according to Reger, enhancing data collection and bridging the gap between the virtual and physical realms.

      Despite Reger's confidence that Neura is creating the finest humanoid, the competition is expected to be intense. Hundreds of companies worldwide, including Musk's Tesla, are working on human-like robots. Tesla is currently developing Optimus, known as the “Tesla bot.”

      Optimus shares similarities with Neura's 4NE-1. Standing 173cm tall and weighing 57kg, it is also designed for multiple functions, capable of folding laundry, watering plants, and vacuuming, as demonstrated in a recent video. Tesla plans to manufacture between 5,000 to 12,000 units of Optimus this year.

      “I view Musk as my main competitor in this field,” remarked Reger.

      While Reger respects Musk, he is concerned about the potential repercussions of Musk's recent behavior on the robotics industry. He worries that political controversies could hinder progress.

      “For humanoids to be welcomed into people’s homes and workplaces, trust is crucial,” said Reger. “Thus, he needs to be cautious about his actions.”