Hyundai Debuts MobED Robot at AW as AI Transforms Manufacturing

Hyundai will showcase its MobED robot among other Korean systems at AW 2026. Source: Hyundai Motor Group

Hyundai Motor Group's Robotics Lab will debut its MobED mobile platform at next week's Smart Factory & Automation World (AW) in Seoul, as robotics and artificial intelligence see growing adoption across manufacturing, logistics, and other sectors. The event will also feature other top industrial robotics suppliers.

First unveiled in December 2025, the "Mobile Eccentric Droid" (MobED) uses four independently controlled wheels and a unique eccentric mechanism for agile, balanced movement over varied terrains. Hyundai highlights its maneuverability in industrial and logistics settings. The robot earned a "Best of Innovation Award" in robotics at CES 2026.

The Robotics Lab, part of the Seoul-based automaker, also develops wearable exoskeletons and service robots for delivery, parking, and safety inspections. Additionally, Hyundai owns humanoid robot developer Boston Dynamics and collaborates with Waymo on autonomous taxi projects.

Global and Korean industrial suppliers to highlight key tech trends

Scheduled for March 4-6 at Coex in Seoul, AW 2026 aims to be more than a conventional smart factory exhibition. Organizers say this shift mirrors the industry's rapid move toward AI-native production, intelligent logistics, and next-generation robotics.

Over 50 international robotics firms are set to participate, including Japan's FANUC, Denmark's Universal Robots, and China's Geekplus. Their involvement underscores the increasing fusion of AI software, industrial robotics, and humanoid technology within global manufacturing, according to AW.

Alongside Hyundai's Robotics Lab, several leading Korean companies will demonstrate their technologies. Exhibitors include Hyundai Glovis, Hyundai Movex, ROBOTIS, Yujin Robot, and Wonik Robotics.

Organizers state that these players will collectively illustrate the technological trends shaping manufacturing's future. The organizing bodies comprise Coex, the Korea Industry Intelligentization Association, the Korea Smart Manufacturing Office, the Korea Machine Vision Industrial Association, Chomdan Inc., and the Korea International Trade Association.

Smart Logistics Zone to feature MobED and autonomous driving tech

AW 2026's Smart Logistics Zone will spotlight innovations beyond Hyundai's MobED. The zone will focus on robotics, autonomous driving, and other AI-powered systems, offering a glimpse into the future of logistics operations.

The event will also host a series of robotics conferences. On March 4, the China Humanoid Robot Conference will make its Korean debut, with executives from Unitree, Fourier, Leju, and Huawei discussing global trends and advancements. Live humanoid demos by AGIBOT, Fourier, and Leju are planned.

"Through this exhibition, visitors can see firsthand how the 'Robot Wave' impacting Korean manufacturing is expanding beyond a tech trend into industrial and capital markets," said the AW 2026 Secretariat. "AW will evolve from a traditional smart factory event into a platform highlighting the AI and robotics-driven humanoid industry."

AW 2026 is now open for online pre-registration. Pre-registered attendees will receive free admission and priority access to global smart factory industry insights.

The MobED platform is designed for both indoor and outdoor operation. Source: Hyundai Motor Group