SoftBank Exits Boston Dynamics as Hyundai Takes Full Control in $325 Million Deal

In a major move that could reshape the future of manufacturing, South Korean automotive giant Hyundai has agreed to acquire SoftBank’s remaining stake in Boston Dynamics for $325 million. Once the deal is approved, Hyundai will gain full ownership of the renowned robotics company, signaling its commitment to making advanced robots a core part of its long-term industrial strategy.

Boston Dynamics is best known for its cutting-edge humanoid robot, Atlas, which has gained global attention through its impressive demonstrations of agility and mobility. Hyundai now plans to move Atlas from research labs to real-world production lines. The company aims to begin deploying Atlas robots at its Metaplant facility in Georgia, USA, by 2028 and eventually roll out more than 25,000 robots across its global manufacturing network by 2030.

The next-generation electric Atlas stands 6.2 feet tall, weighs approximately 198 pounds, and can lift up to 110 pounds. Equipped with human-like tactile fingers, the robot is designed to handle small components and perform complex factory tasks. According to Boston Dynamics CEO Robert Playter, Atlas must be capable of learning new tasks within one or two days and achieve an exceptional reliability rate of 99.9% before earning a permanent role on production lines.

Industry experts believe the acquisition is about much more than owning a robotics company—it is a strategic move to control the future workforce of advanced factories. While Hyundai is focused on using humanoid robots to build electric vehicles, SoftBank is shifting its attention toward AI infrastructure and data centers. As competition intensifies with rivals such as Tesla’s Optimus, Figure AI, and China’s Unitree, Hyundai’s full takeover of Boston Dynamics could become one of the most significant developments in the global humanoid robotics race.