Hyundai acquired the largest share of the American companyof robotics Boston Dynamics from Softbank for $ 880 million.
The deal is in development since December 2020 when the board of directors at three Hyundai subsidiaries approved the purchase that would have given them 80 percent of Boston Dynamics. SoftBank will retain the remaining 20 percent.
Boston Dynamics was founded by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology boffins in 1992. Behind it was the Google and Softbank.
The company's creations are often scary and its maneuverable robot is creepy.
Spot a robot dog was released in June 2020 and is intended for use by utilities, construction, and others. Boston Dynamics' new robot, Stretch, can help warehouses and distribution centers.
However, the company's products have proven to be controversial at times, as in April 2021, the New York Police Department faced review for the purchase of a robot from Boston Dynamics called Digidog. The rationale being that it was natural that the robot looked scary and invaded privacy. The New York AT quickly terminated the US$94.000 contract with Boston Dynamics.
Hyundai says it wants to use Boston Dynamics technology in roles that will not use disign but technology to become a "smart mobility solution provider" company.
Hyundai Motor Group President Chung Euisun said in October 2019 that the group aims to have 20 percent of its robotics business, a goal that will fully strengthen this acquisition. Half of Hyundai's business will remain vehicle-focused, with the remaining 30 percent targeting "urban mobility in the air".
Watch the promotional video below announcing the acquisition and introducing Boston Dynamics technology
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O2_NEy0iDck
