According to @ai_darpa, completely automated factories—referred to as 'dark factories'—are now becoming a reality, marking a significant turning point in industrial automation. These AI-powered facilities operate with minimal to no human intervention, leveraging advanced robotics, machine vision, and AI-driven process management to optimize productivity and reduce operational costs (source: @ai_darpa, Dec 26, 2025). This automation revolution not only challenges traditional labor models but also opens new business opportunities in AI integration, smart supply chains, and manufacturing-as-a-service. Companies investing in AI manufacturing technologies are poised to benefit from increased efficiency, scalability, and the ability to run 24/7 operations without dependence on human labor. The shift to dark factories is already influencing global competitiveness and transforming the future of work in the manufacturing sector.

According to Sawyer Merritt, Tesla has begun hiring for its new $200 million Megapack manufacturing facility near Houston, Texas, which will feature advanced automation and AI-powered production lines for the upcoming Megapack 3, scheduled to begin operations in 2026 (source: Sawyer Merritt on Twitter, KHOU). The company has already posted 41 new positions, with a job fair planned for the week of November 10. This AI-focused expansion is expected to significantly scale up Tesla’s battery storage capabilities and create business opportunities for AI systems integrators, predictive maintenance providers, and smart manufacturing solution vendors in the energy storage industry.