Hyundai Unveils X-ble Shoulder Robot for Industrial Workers
Seoul, South Korea—Hyundai Motor Company and Kia unveiled a wearable robot on Thursday designed to reduce workplace injuries and boost industrial efficiency.
Commercial deliveries are planned for the first half of 2025.
At a technology showcase near Seoul, the companies said that the "X-ble Shoulder" device reduces shoulder load by up to 60% and muscle activity by 30% during overhead work.
The 1.9 kg non-powered device uses a patented multi-link structure to generate assistive force without requiring batteries or charging.
It comes in two versions, offering up to 2.9 kg and 3.7 kg of support, respectively.
Following initial deployment in Hyundai and Kia facilities, the companies plan to expand sales to external firms and enter European and North American markets by 2026, targeting construction, shipbuilding, aviation, and agricultural sectors.
The technology will initially be available exclusively to corporate customers in limited quantities, with integrated consulting services to assess implementation suitability.
Hyundai Motor and Kia are also developing additional wearable robots, including the "X-ble Waist" for lifting assistance and "X-ble MEX" for medical rehabilitation.