Hyundai Motor Group Plans to Deploy Boston Dynamics Atlas Humanoid Robots in Factories Starting 2028

Hyundai Motor Group announced at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas on January 5, 2026, that it will begin integrating humanoid robots into its global factory operations starting in 2028. The company showcased Atlas, a humanoid robot developed by its majority-owned subsidiary Boston Dynamics, which is designed for general industrial applications. Atlas is being developed to collaborate with human workers, autonomously operate machines, reduce physical strain on employees, and handle hazardous or repetitive tasks. Hyundai plans to deploy these robots across its network, including its significant facility in Georgia, USA, which produces electric vehicles and batteries in partnership with LG. This move positions Hyundai in competition with other companies like Tesla (with its Optimus robot), Amazon, and BYD, all exploring humanoid robotics for manufacturing. While the announcement did not specify initial deployment numbers or costs, Hyundai emphasized a gradual rollout, beginning with simpler tasks and expanding over time. Vice Chair Jaehoon Chang addressed potential job loss concerns, noting that human workers will remain essential for training robots, supervision, and other roles. The announcement follows Hyundai’s 2025 commitment to invest over $20 billion in the US, supporting manufacturing expansion, autonomous driving, and AI initiatives under President Trump’s policies. The Georgia plant gained attention in 2025 due to a large immigration raid that detained hundreds of workers, mostly South Koreans, sparking diplomatic discussions and an eventual agreement for their release. Overall, the initiative highlights the growing role of AI and robotics in transforming industrial manufacturing while aiming to improve worker safety and efficiency.