Hyundai buys Boston Dynamics, Atlas humanoid to be used at vehicle plant by 2028
startupfortune.com
June 19, 2026
5 min read
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49/100
Summary
Hyundai Motor Group is acquiring SoftBank's remaining 9.65% stake in Boston Dynamics for $325 million, giving Hyundai full ownership of the robotics company. The acquisition is expected to be approved on June 22, marking the completion of SoftBank's exit from Boston Dynamics.
Key Takeaways
- Hyundai acquired SoftBank's remaining 9.65% stake in Boston Dynamics for $325 million, gaining full control of the robotics company.
- Boston Dynamics' Atlas humanoid robot is expected to begin work at Hyundai's electric vehicle plant in Georgia by 2028, starting with parts sequencing.
- Hyundai plans to leverage its ownership of Boston Dynamics to integrate robotics into its manufacturing processes, focusing on practical applications within its factories.
- The competitive landscape for humanoid robots is evolving, with companies like Tesla and Figure AI also developing robotic solutions for manufacturing environments.
Community Sentiment
Positives
- Humanoid robots like Atlas could adapt to new manufacturing processes, offering flexibility that traditional robots lack, which is crucial for evolving production needs.
- The integration of humanoid robots in spaces designed for human interaction, such as car interiors, highlights their potential to enhance automation in the automotive industry.
Concerns
- Using humanoid robots in manufacturing may lead to suboptimal outcomes, as their human-like form is not necessarily suited for efficiency in industrial tasks.
- Boston Dynamics has struggled to deliver practical products, with their most notable success being a toy, raising concerns about their viability in serious applications.