Now that electric cars are becoming the norm he needs a new hook to keep Tesla relevant and above the rest of the car companies. Tesla's experience with robotics will be a huge advantage. The droid may never be viable but at the very least it's a great marketing hook that will keep people interested in Tesla the company for years to come. Which, in turn, will continue to keep advertising costs close to zero.
I have to give it to him. The man is a marketing genius.