The future of mobility is no longer just about cars, it’s increasingly about robots. In a move that highlights this shift, Hyundai Motor Group is reportedly preparing to acquire SoftBank Group’s remaining 9.65% stake in Boston Dynamics for approximately $325 million. The deal would give Hyundai complete ownership of one of the world’s most advanced robotics companies, known for developing cutting-edge machines such as Spot, the four-legged robot dog, and Atlas, the humanoid robot famous for its impressive agility.
According to reports from South Korea, Hyundai is expected to approve the transaction at a board meeting scheduled for June 22. If completed, the acquisition would mark another major milestone in Hyundai’s long-term strategy of expanding beyond automobiles into robotics, artificial intelligence, and future mobility solutions.
Credits: TipRanks
A Partnership Years in the Making
Hyundai first acquired a controlling stake in Boston Dynamics in 2021 when it purchased around 80% of the company from SoftBank in a deal valued at roughly $1.1 billion. Since then, the South Korean automotive giant has steadily increased its involvement with the robotics pioneer.
The ownership structure currently includes Hyundai Motor Group affiliates such as Hyundai Motor, Kia, Hyundai Mobis, Hyundai Glovis, and Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung. Together, they already control more than 90% of Boston Dynamics. Acquiring SoftBank’s remaining stake would simplify the ownership structure and allow Hyundai to exercise complete strategic control over the robotics company.
For Hyundai, the move represents confidence in Boston Dynamics’ technology and its potential role in shaping the future of transportation, manufacturing, logistics, and automation.
Why Boston Dynamics Matters
Boston Dynamics is widely regarded as one of the most innovative robotics companies in the world. Founded in 1992 as a spin-off from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), the company has spent decades pushing the boundaries of robotic mobility.
Its robots have become internet sensations thanks to videos showcasing their ability to run, jump, dance, and navigate complex environments. However, behind the viral videos lies serious commercial potential. Boston Dynamics’ robots are increasingly being used in industrial inspections, warehouse operations, construction sites, and other environments where automation can improve efficiency and safety.
As labor shortages and automation demands grow worldwide, advanced robotics could become a critical component of modern industries. Hyundai appears determined to be at the center of that transformation.
Building a Mobility Ecosystem Beyond Cars
The acquisition also aligns with Hyundai’s broader vision of becoming a “smart mobility solutions provider” rather than simply an automaker. The company has invested heavily in electric vehicles, autonomous driving technologies, artificial intelligence, urban air mobility, and robotics.
Boston Dynamics plays a key role in that vision. Hyundai sees opportunities to combine robotics with its expertise in manufacturing and transportation. Robots could assist in factories, logistics hubs, warehouses, and even future smart cities. In the long run, humanoid robots and autonomous machines may become as important to Hyundai’s business as automobiles are today.
By bringing Boston Dynamics fully under its umbrella, Hyundai can more easily integrate robotic innovations across its various business units and accelerate product development.
What the Deal Means for SoftBank
For SoftBank, the transaction would represent the end of its involvement with Boston Dynamics. The Japanese investment giant acquired the robotics company from Google in 2017 and later sold a majority stake to Hyundai while retaining a minority holding.
Reports suggest that SoftBank is exercising a put option agreed upon during the original transaction, allowing it to sell its remaining stake back to Hyundai. The move enables SoftBank to monetize its investment while Hyundai gains full ownership of an asset it considers strategically important.
Credits: CNET
The Road Ahead
If approved, the deal would underscore Hyundai’s growing commitment to robotics as a pillar of its future growth strategy. While the company remains one of the world’s leading automakers, it is increasingly positioning itself at the intersection of mobility, artificial intelligence, and automation.
As industries worldwide embrace robotics to improve productivity and address labor challenges, Hyundai’s decision to take complete control of Boston Dynamics could prove to be one of its most significant technology investments yet. The acquisition signals a clear message: Hyundai is betting that the future of mobility extends far beyond the driver’s seat.
