Uiwang:Hyundai Motor Group is advancing its efforts in robotics and physical artificial intelligence (AI) to stay competitive amidst the rise of Chinese automakers and a decline in its stock price. This move is in response to increasing pressure to enhance profitability in its traditional carmaking sector, as the global electric vehicle market faces stiff competition from more affordable Chinese models.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the company's stock, which saw a significant boost after Boston Dynamics unveiled the Atlas humanoid robot at the Consumer Electronics Show, has since plummeted to near pre-CES levels. This decline reflects investor concerns about the profitability timeline of Hyundai's robotics investments, compounded by speculation about a delayed public offering of Boston Dynamics, which has reportedly incurred substantial losses over the past five years.
To address these challenges, Hyundai is focusing on developing AI-powered systems, such as factory and logistics robots, and automated vehicle inspection technologies at its Uiwang Research and Development Center. The goal is to enhance productivity and reduce manufacturing costs. Hyundai's E-Forest Center leads the integration of AI and smart manufacturing technologies, aiming for more efficient production lines.
Hyundai is collaborating with Nvidia Corp. on Polaris, an AI-driven manufacturing platform to assist factory workers in accessing information and analyzing production data more efficiently. Additionally, AI-based inspection systems are being developed to automatically detect defects on vehicle exteriors, minimizing the need for external suppliers and reducing costs. This technology is expected to be implemented at Kia's EVO WEST plant.
Further projects include using computer simulations to generate movement paths for industrial robots autonomously, aiming for completion by 2027. Hyundai plans to introduce more advanced autonomous manufacturing systems at its Singapore Innovation Center by 2030 and expand automation and humanoid robots in future factories by 2032. These initiatives highlight Hyundai's strategy to leverage physical AI for creating new business opportunities and optimizing existing car factory operations.