Post-closing, the Group holds an 80 percent stake in Boston
Dynamics and SoftBank, through one of its affiliates, retains the remaining 20
percent stake.
Boston Dynamics is the established leader in developing
agile, mobile robots that have been successfully integrated into 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.
By acquiring Boston Dynamics and securing a leading presence
in the field of robotics, the Group takes another major step toward its
strategic transformation into a Smart Mobility Solution Provider. To propel
this transformation, the Group has invested substantially in the development of
future technologies, including autonomous driving, artificial intelligence
(AI), Urban Air Mobility (UAM), smart factories and robots.
In the field of robotics, the Group aims to develop advanced
technologies that enhance people's lives and promote safety, thereby realizing
the progress for humanity.
The deal is also expected to allow the Group and Boston
Dynamics to leverage each other's respective strengths in manufacturing,
logistics, construction and automation. Together, the Group and Boston Dynamics
will create a robotics value chain, from robot component manufacturing to smart
logistics solutions. Additionally, the Group will support Boston Dynamics'
continued expansion of its product line and global sales and service footprint.
Boston Dynamics launched sales of its first commercial
robot, Spot® in June of 2020 and now has hundreds of robots operating in a
variety of industries, including power utilities, construction, manufacturing,
oil and gas, and mining. The company also recently unveiled Stretch™, its first
commercial robot specifically designed for warehouse facilities and
distribution centers.
The Group today also released a new video to reveal how it
would further advance mobility for humanity incorporating Boston Dynamics'
expertise. The video is available on Hyundai's youtube channel.