Hyundai Plans Factory Deployment of Humanoid Robots From 2028
Hyundai Motor Group has announced plans to introduce humanoid robots into its manufacturing operations from 2028, joining a growing list of global companies turning to advanced robotics to reshape industrial work.
The South Korean automaker revealed the move at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, where it showcased Atlas, a human-like robot developed by Boston Dynamics. Hyundai, which holds a majority stake in the robotics firm, said the technology will be rolled out across its worldwide production network.
According to the company, Atlas is designed for general industrial use and will initially support human workers before gradually taking on a wider range of tasks. The robot is being developed to operate alongside people, as well as autonomously manage machinery. Hyundai said the aim is to reduce physical strain on workers, handle hazardous duties and accelerate the broader adoption of robotics in manufacturing.
Hyundai did not disclose how many robots it intends to deploy or the cost of the project. However, it confirmed that facilities in the United States, including its plant in Georgia, are part of the long-term integration plan.
The announcement comes amid intensifying competition among major corporations to adopt humanoid robotics. Companies such as Amazon, Tesla and Chinese automaker BYD have also signalled plans to use similar technology in their operations. Tesla, led by Elon Musk, has invested heavily in the development of its own humanoid robot, Optimus.
Addressing concerns about job losses, Hyundai Vice Chair Jaehoon Chang said human workers will continue to play a vital role, including training and overseeing the robots. His comments were reported during the CES presentation.
Hyundai’s push into robotics follows a broader expansion of its US operations. In 2025, the company announced an investment of more than $20bn to increase vehicle production in the country and advance autonomous driving and artificial intelligence technologies, aligning with Washington’s push to strengthen domestic manufacturing.
One of Hyundai’s key US facilities is its Georgia battery plant, operated in partnership with electronics firm LG. The site drew international attention in 2025 after US immigration authorities carried out a large-scale raid, detaining hundreds of workers, including several South Korean nationals. Images from the operation triggered public anger in South Korea and raised concerns about the impact on foreign investment.
The detained workers were later released following an agreement between US and South Korean officials. Hyundai executives and South Korean leaders had warned that the incident could undermine investor confidence, while US officials later acknowledged the need to balance enforcement with attracting skilled workers for specialised industries.
