Hyundai is becoming so much more than a car company. It's humanoid robot, Atlas, is far ahead of Tesla's Optimus!

 

​Hyundai Motor Company, a global automotive leader, has demonstrated resilience and adaptability in the evolving automotive landscape. This report provides a comprehensive overview of Hyundai's recent performance, technological advancements, market strategies, and financial outlook.​

Stock Performance:

Over the past two years, Hyundai's stock has experienced fluctuations:​

• 2023: The stock saw a significant increase, with the market capitalization rising by 34.36% to $33.99 billion by year-end. ​StockAnalysis

• 2024: The momentum slowed, with a 7.09% decrease in market capitalization, bringing it to $31.59 billion. ​StockAnalysis

• Current (March 19, 2025): The stock is trading at approximately $50.60 per share, with a market capitalization of $30.61 billion. ​Yahoo Finance

Financial Performance:

• Revenue: In 2024, Hyundai reported revenues of KRW 175.23 trillion, a 7.73% increase from the previous year. ​StockAnalysis

• Net Profit: The company achieved a net profit of KRW 10.77 trillion in 2024, reflecting a 4.84% year-over-year increase. ​

• Operating Margin: Hyundai maintained an operating margin of 8.9% for the first nine months of 2024 and aims for an 8-9% margin for the full year. ​Reuters

Technological Innovations and Robotics:

Hyundai's acquisition of an 80% stake in Boston Dynamics in 2021 has bolstered its position in robotics. In March 2025, Boston Dynamics released a video showcasing the Atlas humanoid robot performing complex movements, highlighting advancements in agility and autonomy. ​

Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (EVs):

• Hybrid Vehicles: In response to a global slowdown in EV demand, Hyundai plans to double its hybrid lineup, aiming to bolster sales and adapt to market trends. ​Reuters

• Electric Vehicles: Hyundai continues to invest in EV development, with plans to enhance its lineup and production capabilities, including a new factory in Georgia, USA, to produce EVs eligible for federal tax credits. ​Reuters

• Hyundai Industrial Robotics 

  
  
  

• Key Areas Where Hyundai Supplies Robotics to Other Businesses:

  1. Automotive Manufacturing – Hyundai Robotics provides robotic arms and automation systems to automotive manufacturers for welding, painting, assembly, and material handling.
  2. Electronics Industry – Supplies precision robots used in semiconductor and electronic component assembly.
  3. Logistics & Warehousing – Develops autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and robotic picking systems for warehouses.
  4. General Manufacturing – Offers robotic automation for metalworking, packaging, and assembly lines.
  5. Smart Factory Solutions – Provides AI-powered industrial automation solutions to improve efficiency and productivity in manufacturing.

  Boston Dynamics' Role in Hyundai’s Robotics Business

  While Hyundai Robotics focuses on industrial robotics, Boston Dynamics (which Hyundai owns ~80% of) develops advanced mobile robots, such as:

  • Spot (quadruped robot) – Used in construction, security, and industrial inspections.
  • Stretch (logistics robot) – Designed for warehouse automation and package handling.

  Does Hyundai Sell Robotics to Other Businesses?

  Yes, Hyundai actively sells and integrates industrial robots into third-party manufacturing plants and logistics centers. This aligns with its broader strategy of expanding its presence in automation and AI-driven robotics.

Vehicle Sales and Market Reach:

• Global Sales: In the third quarter of 2024, Hyundai's global retail sales declined by 5% year-over-year, with decreases in Europe offsetting gains in the U.S. and South Korea. ​Reuters

• Market Expansion: Hyundai is focusing on increasing its presence in key markets, including North America and Asia, to drive future growth.​

Partnerships and Acquisitions:

• General Motors (GM): Hyundai and GM have announced a non-binding agreement to explore collaboration in areas such as joint vehicle development and clean-energy technologies. ​Reuters

• Boston Dynamics: The acquisition has positioned Hyundai at the forefront of humanoid robotics, with potential applications in manufacturing and mobility solutions. ​

  
  
  

• See Hyundai's new Humanoid Robot, Atlas on YouTube 

  https://youtu.be/0cMPCCFJedY

Cash Position:

• Free Cash Flow: Hyundai reported a free cash flow of -KRW 9,589,518 million in 2023, indicating significant investments in capital expenditures and operations. ​

Stock Performance Outlook for 2025:

Analyst forecasts suggest a positive outlook for Hyundai's stock:​Walletinvestor.com+9Seeking Alpha+9Reuters+9

• Price Target: The average 12-month price target is KRW 311,301, representing a potential 52.60% upside from current levels. ​Investing.com

• Long-Term Forecast: Projections indicate a potential increase to $85.03 by March 2026, a 46.61% rise from current prices. ​Fintel - Financial Intelligence

Conclusion:

Hyundai Motor Company has shown resilience amidst global challenges, with strategic investments in technology, a diversified vehicle lineup, and proactive partnerships. While short-term fluctuations have occurred, the company's long-term prospects appear robust, supported by technological advancements and market expansion strategies. Investors may find Hyundai's current valuation and growth initiatives indicative of potential investment opportunities.​

Hyundai's Strategic Moves and Market Performance

Financial Times

Tesla vs Hyundai: why investors should look more at the Korean company

​

Ed Notes: 

While talk of Tariffs make investors nervous, it should be noted that, South Korea essentially has no Tariffs on U.S. goods and has a free trade agreement signed with America! (One of the few countries in that position)

WSJ

South Korea's Acting President Is Betting on Keeping U.S. Ties Strong

7 days ago