Hyundai Motor Group is taking a significant step towards strengthening its position in the global robotics industry by moving to acquire the remaining stake in Boston Dynamics, the renowned developer of advanced humanoid robots.

According to industry reports, Hyundai Motor Group affiliates, including Hyundai Motor, Kia, and Hyundai Mobis, are expected to approve the acquisition of the remaining 9.65 per cent stake in Boston Dynamics currently held by Japan’s SoftBank Group. The transaction, valued at approximately 500 billion won (US$384.6 million), will make Boston Dynamics a wholly owned subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Group.

Industry observers view the move as a strategic initiative designed to enhance Boston Dynamics’ corporate value, streamline governance, and support a potential future listing on a United States stock exchange. A simplified ownership structure is expected to facilitate faster decision-making and provide greater flexibility for long-term expansion.

The acquisition also aligns with Hyundai Motor Group’s broader vision of transforming itself from a traditional automotive manufacturer into a leading artificial intelligence and robotics company. Central to this strategy is the humanoid robot Atlas, which Hyundai plans to deploy in its manufacturing facilities in the United States from 2028.

The company is reportedly working towards establishing a production capacity of 30,000 Atlas robots annually as part of its smart factory strategy aimed at automating manufacturing and logistics operations.

Industry analysts believe the transaction signals Hyundai Motor Group’s determination to secure a leading position in the rapidly evolving future mobility and robotics sectors, where competition from global technology leaders such as Tesla and Nvidia continues to intensify.