Hyundai Motor Company has acquired full ownership of Boston Dynamics from SoftBank for $325 million, the companies announced today. The deal transfers SoftBank’s stake in the robotics firm to Hyundai, which plans to deploy Boston Dynamics’ humanoid robots, including the Atlas model, at its vehicle manufacturing plants by 2028, according to startupfortune.com.
The acquisition follows a strategic decision by SoftBank to exit its investment in Boston Dynamics. Hyundai’s move to take full control aims to accelerate the integration of advanced robotics into its production lines. Boston Dynamics’ Atlas humanoid robot, known for its agility and balance, is slated to play a key role in automating complex tasks within Hyundai’s factories, enhancing efficiency and safety.
This transaction marks a significant shift in the robotics and automotive sectors, as Hyundai joins other manufacturers investing heavily in automation technologies. Boston Dynamics, previously backed by SoftBank, has been a leader in developing dynamic robots capable of navigating real-world environments. Hyundai’s acquisition aligns with broader industry trends toward smart manufacturing and robotics-driven operations.
Hyundai has set a target to begin deploying Boston Dynamics’ Atlas robots in its vehicle plants by 2028, signaling a concrete timeline for integrating humanoid robotics into large-scale industrial use. The $325 million purchase price was disclosed in the official announcement covered by startupfortune.com.