Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) has formally opened its electric and hybrid vehicle production facility in Ellabell, Georgia, featuring advanced automation and robotics as core components of its manufacturing system. The plant integrates a suite of AI-driven and robotic technologies adapted from the Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Center in Singapore and scaled for large-volume production in the U.S.
Robots are central to HMGMA’s operations, with automation levels in the assembly shop nearly double those of the Group’s existing facilities. The facility utilizes automated guided vehicles to streamline logistics and incorporates Boston Dynamics’ Spot robot for exterior quality inspections within the weld shop. Additionally, parking robots operate within the assembly area, supporting precision and efficiency.
The plant’s production system is structured around real-time data collection and AI optimization, covering every phase from order collection to final assembly. This data-centric design allows robotic systems to work alongside human employees in a cooperative model aimed at increasing productivity while maintaining quality control.
The integration of robotics at HMGMA extends beyond manufacturing. A fleet of Hyundai XCIENT hydrogen fuel-cell electric trucks, 21 of which are in operation at the Georgia site, supports parts delivery from regional suppliers. These trucks form part of the facility’s clean logistics operations and represent a shift toward low-emission transport infrastructure.
HMGMA is part of a broader $12.6 billion investment by Hyundai Motor Group in Georgia, with plans to increase the plant’s annual production capacity to 500,000 vehicles. As the company expands its U.S. presence, an additional $6 billion has been allocated for innovation initiatives in robotics, AI, autonomous driving, and related fields between 2025 and 2028.
