Hyundai's AI Robotics Revolution: Shaping the Future of Manufacturing

Hyundai Motor Group is spearheading a transformative shift in the AI robotics industry, leveraging its extensive manufacturing capabilities to integrate advanced robotic solutions across its global operations. At CES 2026, the company unveiled its ambitious plans to accelerate the commercialization of human-centered AI robotics, aiming to redefine manufacturing processes and expand into sectors like logistics, energy, construction, and facility management by 2030.

The core of Hyundai's strategy lies in its Software-Defined Factory (SDF) and Robot Metaplant Application Center (RMAC), which serve as hubs for training and validating AI robotic solutions. Unlike traditional hardware-focused factories, SDFs operate on a software and data-driven model, enabling greater agility, flexibility, and safety. This approach allows Hyundai to update its systems more efficiently, improve product quality, and reduce costs while fostering better collaboration between humans and robots.

Hyundai's partnership with Boston Dynamics further strengthens its position in the AI robotics market. The collaboration focuses on deploying Boston Dynamics' advanced robots, such as the Atlas model, in Hyundai's manufacturing sites. These robots are designed to assist humans in demanding environments, handling tasks like carrying heavy objects and adapting to various workplace roles. By integrating these robots into its manufacturing value chain, Hyundai aims to achieve its annual automotive sales target of 9.8 million units by 2030.

Collaborative Innovation in AI Robotics

Hyundai's approach to AI robotics emphasizes real-world application over conceptual development. The company deploys its robots in challenging manufacturing environments, where they undergo rigorous testing and validation before being integrated into everyday operations. This strategy ensures that only proven and reliable AI robotic solutions are introduced to the market, enhancing their trustworthiness and effectiveness.

The Robot Metaplant Application Center (RMAC), set to open in 2026, will play a pivotal role in this process. Robots trained at RMAC will begin sequencing tasks at Hyundai's manufacturing sites by 2028, with more complex operations like assembly starting by 2030. This phased integration allows Hyundai to continuously improve its robotic solutions through real-world data and feedback, creating a cycle of innovation and refinement.

Hyundai's collaboration with Google DeepMind further elevates its AI robotics capabilities. By combining Boston Dynamics' humanoid robots with Google DeepMind's advanced AI foundation models, Hyundai aims to create robots equipped with advanced reasoning and adaptability skills. This partnership paves the way for large-scale deployment of robots that can support humans in complex, real-world tasks beyond manufacturing.

Expanding the AI Robotics Value Chain

Hyundai's integrated AI robotics value chain is supported by its group affiliates, each contributing unique expertise. Hyundai Motor Company and Kia provide manufacturing infrastructure and large-scale production data, while Hyundai Mobis develops high-performance actuators and standardizes components. Hyundai Glovis optimizes logistics and supply chain management, ensuring seamless integration across the value chain.

This collaborative approach enables Hyundai to offer comprehensive robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS), providing customers with ongoing support, including software updates, hardware maintenance, and remote monitoring. By leveraging its mass-production capabilities and robust value chain, Hyundai aims to lead the AI robotics industry and drive human progress through innovative, human-centered solutions.