[Hyundai·Samsung·China Robot Dog Competition] "Used from Factories to Warfare"... Hyundai Motor's Robot Dog Emerges

② Boston Dynamics' 'Spot'

Editor's NoteIn the 1980s and 1990s, Hyundai and Samsung fiercely competed as the top two conglomerates in Korea's business world. However, their business domains were distinctly different. Samsung specialized in fast and lightweight electronic products, known as gyeongbak danso (輕薄短小). In contrast, Hyundai was characterized by jung-hu jang-dae (重厚長大), focusing on heavy and large products like ships and automobiles as their flagship items. In the 1990s, this distinction began to blur. Hyundai Electronics (now Hynix) started mass-producing semiconductors. Samsung Motors (now Renault Korea) SM5 cars ran alongside Hyundai Sonata on the roads. Just before these two companies were about to engage in an all-out battle to defend and seize their core businesses, the IMF crisis struck. Samsung had to give up automobiles, and Hyundai had to relinquish semiconductors. Now, 30 years later, the two companies are preparing for another showdown, putting their pride on the line over future core businesses.

#Kia's Gwangmyeong plant, which produces the Carnival and K9. Late at night, a four-legged robot dog patrols the factory floor, walking steadily. This is 'Spot,' a robot dog developed by Boston Dynamics, a Hyundai Motor Group affiliate. Spot can navigate stairs and narrow paths that are difficult for humans to pass through without obstruction. It detects blind spots or hazardous areas that are hard to visually confirm using a thermal imaging camera. It collects information such as signs of intrusion by outsiders, potential fire outbreaks, and the opening or closing status of entrances, reporting these to headquarters in real time.

The introduction of quadruped robots (robot dogs) in industrial sites is increasing. With strengthened industrial accident prevention measures and labor-friendly policies like the 52-hour workweek, robots are increasingly replacing human roles. Hyundai Motor Group plans to lead robot development not only in industrial sites but also in medical and delivery fields.

In June 2021, Hyundai Motor Group acquired Boston Dynamics, considered the world's top robotics company. They invested about 1 trillion won to purchase 80% of the company's shares. Hyundai Motor holds 30%, Hyundai Mobis 20%, Hyundai Glovis 10%, totaling 60%, while Chairman Chung Euisun personally invested approximately 239 billion won to acquire 20%. At the time, Chairman Chung stated the acquisition background: "By combining Boston Dynamics' robotics technology with Hyundai Motor Group's capabilities as a smart mobility solutions company, we can lead innovation in future mobility," adding, "We will also play a role for humanity in public sectors such as safety, security, and healthcare."

Boston Dynamics' quadruped robot 'Spot,' released in 2019, is priced at $74,500 (about 100 million won). The high-risk operation model equipped with various special devices is known to cost $277,917.

Spot was modeled after mountain goats living in rugged terrain. This allows it to be used in various terrains and maintain excellent balance. It is equipped with visual, auditory, and temperature sensors, as well as stereo cameras. It weighs 32 kg and has a top speed of 5.76 km/h. Its maximum payload is 14 kg. With a built-in battery, it can operate for an average of 90 minutes on a full charge. It functions in harsh environments ranging from minus 20 degrees Celsius to plus 45 degrees Celsius. It also has waterproof and dustproof features. When equipped with the 98 cm Spot Arm, it can grasp and carry objects. It can operate handles and valves, meaning it can open doors or shut off gas.

Spot can be used not only in industrial sites but also in warfare and police operations. In April last year, Hyundai deployed Spot at its Tancong plant in Vietnam to support assembly line work. Since June, it has also been assigned to patrol Kia's Autoland Gwangmyeong plant. During early morning hours after workers leave, it autonomously moves within designated areas and conducts inspections. The U.S. Army deployed Spot in the Ukraine war to remove landmines and other ammunition. The Hawaii Police Department purchased Spot to assist with measuring the body temperature of homeless people, who are at high risk of COVID-19 infection, and managing shelters. The New York Police Department deployed Spot in February 2021 during a hostage robbery incident to identify the hostage takers and assist at the crime scene.

Hyundai Motor Group plans to utilize robots in various fields. This year, it will launch the medical robot 'X-BL' to enter the robot healthcare market. X-BL is a wearable device that helps with walking and assists in rehabilitation training such as joint movement recovery. At the end of last year, Hyundai conducted a pilot project for autonomous delivery services using robots in a mixed-use complex in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province.