In a groundbreaking move, South Korean automotive giant Hyundai Motor Group has announced plans to integrate human-like robots, developed by Boston Dynamics, into its global manufacturing network starting from 2028. This strategic decision comes as major companies across industries race to harness the potential of this cutting-edge technology.
Hyundai showcased the impressive Atlas humanoid robot at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas on Monday, revealing its intentions to “integrate Atlas across its global network.” This includes the firm’s plant in the US state of Georgia, which was previously embroiled in a high-profile immigration raid in 2025.
The Atlas robots are designed for general industrial use and will gradually take on more tasks, helping to ease physical strain on human workers, handle potentially dangerous jobs, and pave the way for wider adoption of humanoid technology in the manufacturing sector. Hyundai, which owns a majority stake in Boston Dynamics, did not disclose the initial deployment numbers or the project’s total cost.
Addressing concerns over job losses, Hyundai’s vice chair, Jaehoon Chang, acknowledged that people will still be needed to train the robots and fulfil other roles. The announcement follows Hyundai’s 2025 pledge to invest more than $20 billion in the US, supporting former President Donald Trump’s efforts to boost domestic manufacturing.
The company’s battery plant in Georgia, operated in partnership with LG Electronics, is one of Hyundai’s key facilities in the US. The plant was the site of a controversial immigration raid in 2025, which resulted in the arrest of hundreds of workers, including at least 300 South Korean citizens. The incident sparked outrage in South Korea and prompted an agreement between Washington and Seoul to release the detained workers.
Hyundai’s move to integrate humanoid robots aligns with the broader industry trend, with companies like Amazon, Tesla, and China’s BYD also investing in similar technologies. As the race to develop advanced robotics continues, Hyundai’s bold step could set the stage for the future of manufacturing, blending human expertise with the capabilities of intelligent machines.
