Figure AI and Hyundai Motor Group Initiate First Commercial Pilot of Humanoid Robots in Indian Automotive Hubs - RobotWale News

Industry Deployments

Figure AI and Hyundai Motor Group Initiate First Commercial Pilot of Humanoid Robots in Indian Automotive Hubs

Figure AI and Hyundai Motor Group announced on October 12, 2024, the commencement of their first commercial pilot deployment of humanoid robots across three automotive assembly facilities in Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra. The initiative marks the first large-scale operational testing of Figure 02 units in India’s manufacturing sector, focusing on repetitive component handling, quality inspection, and logistics coordination on high-volume production lines.

Operational Scope and Technical Integration

The pilot program will deploy 24 Figure 02 humanoid robots equipped with advanced tactile sensing, 3D vision systems, and adaptive grippers capable of handling delicate automotive parts without damage. Each unit operates on a proprietary reinforcement learning framework that allows real-time adaptation to dynamic factory environments. The robots are integrated with Hyundai’s existing MES (Manufacturing Execution System) via secure APIs, enabling seamless task routing and performance tracking. Initial deployment phases will run in controlled, semi-automated zones, with human supervisors monitoring all robotic operations to ensure compliance with workplace safety protocols.

India Market Impact and Pricing Structure

Recognizing India’s position as a rapidly expanding automotive and electronics manufacturing hub, the partnership includes a localized pricing model tailored for Indian SMEs and large-scale industrial operators. Figure AI has announced a subscription-based leasing option starting at ₹18.5 lakh per month for the Figure 02 unit, which includes maintenance, software updates, and on-site technical support. A one-time purchase option is available at ₹2.1 crore, with volume discounts for fleets exceeding ten units. The company has also established a regional support center in Chennai to provide rapid response engineering services and localized training programs for Indian technicians.

Regulatory Alignment and Future Rollout

The deployment aligns with India’s National Robotics Policy guidelines, which encourage safe automation adoption in manufacturing while prioritizing workforce transition strategies. Hyundai and Figure AI have committed to upskilling 150 local workers through certified robotics operation courses over the next six months. The pilot will conclude in March 2025, with performance data shared with the Ministry of Heavy Industries to inform future automation standards. If operational metrics meet efficiency and safety thresholds, the companies plan to expand the deployment to 120 units across India’s industrial corridors by Q2 2026.