Hyundai Motor Group has announced plans to introduce advanced humanoid robots across its global manufacturing operations beginning in 2028, marking a significant step in the accelerating race among major corporations to adopt human-like robotics.
The South Korean automotive giant unveiled Atlas, a cutting-edge humanoid robot developed by its subsidiary Boston Dynamics, at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas on Monday. Designed with human-like mobility and dexterity, Atlas is capable of performing complex physical tasks that traditionally require skilled human labor, including lifting, carrying, and navigating challenging environments.
According to Hyundai, the company intends to gradually integrate Atlas into factories worldwide, using the robot to enhance productivity, improve workplace safety, and address long-term labor shortages. The rollout will include facilities in Asia, Europe, and North America, notably a manufacturing plant in the US state of Georgia. That site previously drew attention after being linked to a large-scale immigration raid in 2025, highlighting broader workforce challenges within the manufacturing sector.
Hyundai executives emphasized that humanoid robots are not intended to fully replace human workers, but rather to support them by taking on physically demanding, repetitive, or hazardous tasks. The company believes this collaboration between humans and robots will lead to safer and more efficient production environments.
Hyundai is not alone in this push. Several global companies are rapidly exploring humanoid robotics as part of their operational strategies. Amazon has tested robots in logistics and warehouse operations, Tesla has showcased its Optimus humanoid robot for future factory use, and Chinese automotive leader BYD has also signaled interest in deploying similar technologies.
As advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, and sensor technology continue to converge, humanoid robots are moving closer to real-world industrial deployment. Hyundai’s announcement positions the company at the forefront of this technological shift, signaling that human-like robots may soon become a common sight on factory floors worldwide.
