Hyundai adds mobile robots and first electric touring win

Hyundai has secured a controlling interest in Boston Dynamics from SoftBank which enables it to create a robotics value chain, from robot component manufacturing to smart logistics solutions.

It expects synergy between the companies to accelerate the development of cutting-edge robotics featuring advanced mobility, manipulation and vision capabilities.

By acquiring Boston Dynamics and securing a leading presence in the field of robotics, Hyundai takes another major step toward its strategic transformation into a Smart Mobility Solution Provider.

It has invested substantially in the development of future technologies, including autonomous driving, artificial intelligence (AI), Urban Air Mobility (UAM), smart factories and robots.

The deal valued the mobile robot firm at US$1.1 billion.

Post-closing, Hyundai Motor Group holds an 80% stake in Boston Dynamics and SoftBank, through one of its affiliates, retains the remaining 20%.

Boston Dynamics is a leader in developing agile, mobile robots that have been successfully integrated into the business operations of many of the world’s leading industrial firms. Advanced robotics offer opportunities for rapid growth with the potential to positively impact society by making work safer and more productive.

Sales of its first commercial robot, Spot, were launched by Boston Dynamics in June 2020 and it now has hundreds of robots operating in a variety of industries, including power utilities, construction, manufacturing, oil and gas, and mining.

The company recently unveiled Stretch, its first commercial robot specifically designed for warehouse facilities and distribution centres.

Meanwhile, Hyundai Motorsport scored multiple wins in a weekend of close and competitive racing at the first PURE ETCR electric touring car round in Vallelunga from June 18-20.

History was made with the Hyundai Veloster N ETCR as Augusto Farfus claimed the first PURE ETCR win in Round 1, with Jean-Karl Vernay victorious in the Super Final B.

 “After 18 months of development, testing, and learning, the team is proud to have been a part of this historic moment with PURE ETCR,” Hyundai Motorsport marketing and PR director Stefan Henrich says.

“The Veloster N ETCR demonstrated its winning capabilities in its competitive debut, and now our focus is on maximising our performance to fight for the lead in the championship in the next round in Aragón (July 10-11).”