Hyundai Motor's tech bets face headwinds as core business loses steam

Hyundai Motor's auto profitability is declining, casting doubt on the viability of its investments in robotics and autonomous driving technologies, which are still years away from generating substantial revenue. The company is placing its future on three fronts: Boston Dynamics' Atlas humanoid robot, its own software-defined vehicle (SDV), and autonomous driving capabilities.

However, these sectors are not yet bringing in significant earnings, leaving Hyundai increasingly reliant on its traditional auto business, which is under pressure due to labor disputes, US tariffs, and competition from Chinese automakers in Europe. As the gap between its weakening core business and future growth opportunities widens, investors are finding it harder to overlook.

Hyundai's stock has plummeted about 60% from its June 1 high of 783,000 won ($587) to under 320,000 won on Monday, signaling a waning interest in its robotics ventures and mounting concerns about its earnings expectations.