Hyundai and Kia are developing a portable robot

Production Hyundai and Kia are developing Exoskeletons

2024-12-03 From Lina Demmel 2 min Reading Time

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Car manufacturer Hyundai and Kia have introduced an exoskeleton designed to assist with physically demanding tasks in industrial settings, with the first units set for delivery in Korea by 2025.

The portable robot X-ble Shoulder reduces shoulder strain in the workplace and lowers the activity of the anterior deltoid muscles.(Bild: Hyundai Motor) — The portable robot X-ble Shoulder reduces shoulder strain in the workplace and lowers the activity of the anterior deltoid muscles.
(Bild: Hyundai Motor)

Hyundai and Kia's Robotics Lab have introduced the "X-ble Shoulder," a portable robot designed for physically demanding tasks in industrial environments. The mechanical exoskeleton aims to reduce the risk of injuries while increasing work efficiency. Weighing approximately 1.9 kilograms (approx. 3.75 lb), the X-ble Shoulder can be customized to meet the specific needs of the user, according to a statement from Hyundai.

The two companies plan to deploy this work-assistance tool across various industries, including automotive, construction, shipbuilding, aerospace, and agriculture. Leveraging their extensive portfolio and the wide range of potential applications, the existing infrastructure of the Korean companies will be utilized optimally for product testing. After the initial market launch in Korea, distribution will gradually expand to international markets.

Significant Reduction in Shoulder Strain

The X-ble Shoulder was developed with a focus on user safety and health. It reduces shoulder strain in the workplace by up to 60% and lowers the activity of the anterior deltoid muscles by up to 30%, according to Hyundai. Using carbon composite materials and wear-resistant components minimizes the device's weight without compromising durability.

The X-ble Shoulder is available in two versions: Basic and Adjustable. The basic version is designed for tasks requiring frequent posture changes and offers up to 2.9 kgf of support force. The adjustable version, on the other hand, is ideal for repetitive tasks. It allows users to customize the angle for maximum torque according to their working posture and provides a support force of up to 3.7 kg (approx. 8.16 lb).

User Feedback in Development

User feedback played a crucial role in the development of the X-ble Shoulder. Between 2022 and 2024, a pilot study was conducted involving around 300 workers and health managers from Hyundai Motor and Kia facilities.

Hyundai and Kia's Robotics Lab also outlined a commercialization plan for the X-ble Shoulder. Initially, the robot will be deployed in the production and maintenance departments of Hyundai and Kia. By the mid-2020s, sales will expand beyond the 27 subsidiaries of Hyundai Motor Group to external companies. Entry into international markets such as Europe and North America is planned for 2026.

Lifting and Rehabilitation: Additional Robots in Development

The two automakers are also working on other portable robotic systems: the X-ble Waist, designed to support the lumbar spine during heavy lifting tasks, and the medical robot X-ble MEX, aimed at rehabilitating individuals with injuries or limited mobility.

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Date: 08.12.2025

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