Media reports suggest that Hyundai is to deploy Boston Dynamics’ Atlas humanoid robots at its factories in the US.
Hyundai Motor Group is to gain full control of Boston Dynamics by acquiring SoftBank’s stake in the US robotics company, according to various media reports.
Although terms of the deal have not been disclosed, Reuters reported that it would cost Hyundai around 500 billion won ($335m) for the Japanese investment company’s holdings of between 9pc and 10pc in Boston Dynamics.
Meanwhile, Bloomberg reported that the deal would be worth around $325m, with Hyundai paying a “locked-in price” at a much lower valuation – around $3.3bn – than what the company is likely worth in 2026 – between $20bn and $100bn.
On completion of the deal, Hyundai and affiliates will fully own the US robotics company, having previously acquired around 80pc of shares in 2021 for $880m.
The move could help Hyundai to build an end-to-end AI robotics process by combining Boston Dynamics’ physical AI capabilities with the larger group’s capacity in manufacturing, mobility technologies and supply chain access.
Korean media reported that a Hyundai Motor Group official said: “As part of our long-term robotics strategy, we have been reviewing ways to expand our investment in Boston Dynamics. We will continue to strengthen the competitiveness of our robotics business and pursue greater synergies.”
Reports suggested that Hyundai is to deploy Boston Dynamics’ Atlas humanoid robots at various of its factories in the US.
Atlas is scheduled to begin parts-sequencing work in 2028, with its role expanding to component assembly from 2030 once the robot’s operational reliability has been established, according to the Korea Herald.
Hyundai aims to build annual production capacity for 30,000 robots by 2028 and deploy 25,000 units at Hyundai Motor and Kia plants before supplying outside customers, according to the publication.
In May, social media and tech giant Meta acquired US start-up Assured Robot Intelligence in aid of its plans to build humanoid technology. Its Big Tech rival Amazon, in March, cut a small number of jobs in its own robotics division.
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