Boston Dynamics Atlas Electric Humanoid Enters Production at CES 2026

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026 in Las Vegas, United States, marked a significant milestone in robotics on January 5, 2026, with the official launch of the production version of Boston Dynamics’ Atlas humanoid robot, now fully electric.

This transition from advanced prototype to commercially deployable machinery signals the technology's readiness for massive industrial implementation. Production of the final Atlas version commenced immediately at Boston Dynamics’ headquarters, with the entire 2026 fiscal year production allocation already secured by initial customers. This strong market commitment is demonstrated by full allocation to Hyundai Motor Group, the majority shareholder of Boston Dynamics, and their new artificial intelligence partner, Google DeepMind.

General Manager Zack Jackowski noted that the new generation was strategically engineered for enhanced compatibility with automotive supply chains, evidenced by a substantial reduction in unique components. The new Atlas features 56 degrees of freedom (DoF) with fully rotational joints, a reach extending up to 2.3 meters (7.5 feet), and a payload capacity of up to 50 kilograms (110 pounds). Furthermore, the robot is rated IP67 for water and dust resistance and can operate in temperatures between -20°C and 40°C (-4°F to 104°F), surpassing the environmental limitations of its hydraulic predecessor.

Atlas’s intelligence is augmented through a strategic partnership with Google DeepMind, integrating the Gemini Robotics foundation models. This collaboration aims to merge Boston Dynamics' athletic capability with DeepMind’s core AI, enabling the robot to learn from physical experience and execute commands with more human-like reasoning. Carolina Parada, Senior Director of Robotics at Google DeepMind, indicated that the focus is on building general artificial intelligence, starting with the automotive sector before expanding.

Hyundai Motor Group plans a phased implementation, aligning with its vision of human-centered automation under the "Partnering Human Progress" banner. Hyundai intends to deploy Atlas for tasks such as parts sequencing in its facilities, including the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA), beginning in 2028. The long-term ambition extends to component assembly and other complex operations by 2030, supported by Hyundai's $26 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing, which includes plans to build a factory capable of producing 30,000 Atlas units annually by 2028.

Boston Dynamics CEO Robert Playter affirmed that this production version is the most capable robot the company has built, stating it will redefine industrial operations. The immediate commitment for all 2026 allocations underscores substantial corporate confidence in Atlas’s potential to deliver a Return on Investment (ROI) within the first two years of adoption. This launch emphasizes the industry's shift from demonstration robotics toward immediately applicable industrial solutions.