Hyundai Motor Suppliers Expand into Robotics Supply Chain as Humanoid Market Grows

Hyundai Motor Group's established automotive supplier network is rapidly expanding into robotics, with companies including SL taking on key roles in manufacturing robot components and platforms as demand for industrial and humanoid robots continues to grow. The shift reflects how traditional automotive expertise is being repurposed to support next-generation robotics supply chains.

A long-standing Hyundai Motor supplier for nearly six decades, SL has broadened its portfolio beyond automotive lighting by manufacturing components for Hyundai's robotics initiatives. The company is producing MobED mobile robot platforms, supplying LiDAR modules and battery pack assemblies, and preparing mass production of leg modules for Boston Dynamics' Spot quadruped robot.

SL is also developing the Sseulmo Robot, a mobile dual-arm manufacturing robot created in partnership with Neuromeka to automate production processes. Internal estimates suggest the robot could achieve practical production speeds at 50% of human capability while enabling continuous day and night operations.

A Hyundai Motor Company official stated:

"Building a robotics parts ecosystem in Korea is a mission for Hyundai Motor Group. That is why we actively encourage and support suppliers that want to do robotics businesses. We are cooperating on robotics projects while advancing robot mass production together with existing suppliers."

The transition is driven by the growing overlap between automotive and robotics technologies. Components such as actuators, motors, sensors, batteries and controllers developed for electric vehicles can be adapted for robotic joints, mobility platforms and intelligent automation systems.

Hyundai Motor Group has also established the MobED Alliance, bringing together multiple automotive suppliers including SL, Seoyon E-Hwa, Sungwoo Hitech and MOBASE to strengthen domestic robotics manufacturing capabilities.

Industry observers highlighted the strategic importance of the transition:

"As robotics moves toward large-scale commercialization, established automotive suppliers possess significant advantages in quality systems, mass production expertise and global supply chains. These capabilities are expected to accelerate the development of competitive industrial and humanoid robot ecosystems while supporting future automation across manufacturing and logistics. With Hyundai Mobis managing Atlas parts supply, existing suppliers may also enter the Atlas production network through this channel."

While SL generated 410.2 billion won from its LED lamp business out of 523.99 billion won in total sales last year, the robotics pivot represents a strategic move to secure future growth. Global auto parts suppliers such as Denso, Bosch and Schaeffler are undertaking similar transformations, with market projections estimating humanoid robot shipments could reach 1.378 million units by 2035 under optimistic scenarios.