Hyundai to Deploy Humanoid Robots at US Factory from 2028
Hyundai Motor Group announced plans to introduce humanoid robots at its United States manufacturing plant in Georgia from 2028, taking a significant step towards automating high-risk and repetitive production tasks. The South Korean company unveiled the production version of its Atlas humanoid robot, developed by its subsidiary Boston Dynamics, at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas on Monday.
Atlas to Lead Hyundai’s “Physical AI” Initiative
The company revealed that it intends to build a factory capable of producing 30,000 Atlas units annually by 2028. These robots will initially focus on parts sequencing tasks before gradually expanding into more complex applications as safety and performance standards are confirmed. By 2030, Hyundai expects Atlas robots to handle component assembly and eventually take on heavy lifting and intricate manufacturing duties across its global facilities.
Atlas is equipped with human-scale hands that feature tactile sensing and can lift up to 50 kilograms. The robot operates autonomously in environments ranging from minus 20 degrees Celsius to 40 degrees Celsius. Hyundai described the deployment as part of its broader “physical AI” strategy, which integrates artificial intelligence into real-world systems capable of perception, decision-making, and adaptive learning.
Balancing Automation and Employment
Hyundai Motor Vice Chair Jaehoon Chang addressed concerns about automation replacing human jobs. He explained that while robots will take over hazardous and repetitive tasks, human workers will remain essential for training, supervision, and maintenance. The company anticipates creating new types of roles to support this technology-driven transformation.
At Hyundai’s affiliate Kia Corporation, workers have already raised questions about the implications of AI and robotics for labour rights. The union has called for establishing a body to address these issues as automation becomes more widespread in the automotive industry.
Collaborations to Enhance Safety and Efficiency
Hyundai said it is accelerating its robotics and AI development through collaborations with Nvidia and Google. These partnerships aim to enhance robot safety, operational efficiency, and real-world deployment readiness. The company also highlighted that humanoid robots are expected to become the largest segment of the emerging physical AI market, which includes smart factories, autonomous vehicles, and advanced robotics.
By investing in humanoid robotics, Hyundai is positioning itself at the forefront of the next generation of industrial automation, combining its manufacturing expertise with cutting-edge artificial intelligence.
with inputs from Reuters