Hyundai Motor Group has announced it will buy out the remaining 10 percent stake in Boston Dynamics from SoftBank Group, making the American robotics company a wholly owned subsidiary. The move finalizes a gradual takeover that began in 2021 when Hyundai acquired an 80 percent share for $880 million.
According to Reuters, the deal’s financial terms were not disclosed. The announcement marks the end of SoftBank’s involvement with Boston Dynamics, a firm known for its advanced humanoid and quadruped robots. Hyundai now gains full control over the company behind the Atlas and Spot robots.
The Korean automotive giant has already outlined concrete plans for the technology. Beginning in 2028, Hyundai intends to deploy the humanoid robot Atlas in its electric vehicle plant in Georgia, USA. Initially, the robot will handle part sequencing, with its role expected to expand to assembly tasks by 2030.
A long-term acquisition strategy
Hyundai first entered the robotics space seriously in 2021, purchasing 80 percent of Boston Dynamics from SoftBank for $880 million. At the time, SoftBank retained a 20 percent stake. Now, five years later, Hyundai is buying out that remaining share to take full ownership. The acquisition aligns with Hyundai’s broader push into automation and artificial intelligence across its manufacturing operations.
Boston Dynamics has long been a pioneer in legged robotics, with its Spot robot widely used in industrial inspection and its Atlas humanoid setting benchmarks for agility and mobility. Full integration into Hyundai’s corporate structure could accelerate the commercial rollout of these platforms beyond research labs and into everyday factories.
Humanoid robots enter Hyundai factories
The plan to introduce Atlas robots in Georgia is a significant step. The plant, which produces EVs, will serve as a testing ground for humanoid automation in real production lines. Hyundai has said that by 2030 the robot’s duties may include sub-assembly work, effectively taking on tasks that currently require human dexterity or repetitive motion.
This move reflects a wider industry trend. Automotive manufacturers worldwide are experimenting with humanoid robots to fill labor gaps and improve efficiency. Hyundai’s commitment to deploying Atlas in a high-volume factory signals a vote of confidence in the technology’s maturity.
With full ownership, Hyundai can now align Boston Dynamics’ roadmap directly with its own production needs, potentially paving the way for further applications in other Hyundai factories globally.
Źródło: WNP.PL, Reuters, Fot. Boston Dynamics / materiały prasowe
