Hyundai, Kia Announce “Wearable Robot” to Make Factory Workers Stronger

Hyundai Motor and Kia’s Robotics Lab has demonstrated a new “wearable robot”, or upper body exoskeleton, called the X-ble Shoulder. Designed for use in factories and other industrial settings, it is said to boost worker efficiency by augmenting the wearer’s upper arm strength, especially when performing physical tasks that require overhead motion. According to the official announcement, the X-ble Shoulder can reduce shoulder load by 60 percent and deltoid muscle strain by 30 percent.  

The device is the first of several wearable robots branded X-ble, which are being developed by the two companies’ joint Robotics Lab. The name comes from the letter X, evoking infinite possibilities, and the word “able”. Future models include the X-ble Waist, designed to assist with lifting loads and reducing lower back injuries, and the X-ble MEX, a medical wearable intended to help rehabilitate people with mobility impairments. 

The X-ble Shoulder is set to be available commercially in South Korea in the first half of 2025, with international availability to follow in 2026 depending on feedback. It will be targeted at industries including construction, agriculture, shipbuilding, automotive, and logistics. 

The robot works by generating an assistive force through a non-powered torque generation structure. This also means the robot does not need to be charged, making it versatile and easy to store. It weighs 1.9kg and its arm has a 180-degree range of motion.

Two versions have been developed; a basic one that can generate 2.9kgf of force and can be used in dynamic environments, and an adjustable one that can be tuned to tailor the robot to a specific task, and puts out up to 3.7kgf. 

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It is modular, with a washable “vest” for hygiene and versatility when used by multiple people or in different environments. It is constructed using carbon composite material, with impact-resistant material and a “crash pad” where it comes in contact with the wearer’s body. The lab says it can be used comfortably for long stretches of time.

Both Hyundai Motor and Kia have trialled this wearable robot at their manufacturing plants since 2022, and the lab has incorporated feedback from around 300 workers regarding comfort, ease of use, maintenance, and adjustability. The companies will use it across 27 Hyundai Motor Group facilities. They will also offer a consulting service, helping potential customers identify how this robot and future models can be used to streamline their processes and boost efficiency.