Hyundai Hires Ex-Tesla Humanoid Robots Chief Milan Kovac to Fast-Track AI, Robotics and Self-Driving Software

Hyundai Motor Group has made a sharp, future-focused move by appointing Milan Kovac-best known for leading Tesla’s humanoid robots program-as an adviser. The goal is clear: speed up Hyundai’s work in AI (artificial intelligence), robotics, and autonomous vehicle software.

In today’s auto industry, this kind of appointment is not just about adding a big name. It’s about gaining real experience in building intelligent systems that can work in the real world-inside factories, inside vehicles, and across mobility networks.

As one executive-level voice put it during the discussions, “Cars are turning into smart machines. Software and AI will decide who wins.”

Why Hyundai’s Milan Kovac Appointment Is a Big Signal

This is not a regular advisory role announcement. It’s a loud message to the industry.

Hyundai is betting that the next generation of mobility will be built on:

• AI-driven decision making
• Robotics that can support humans
• Autonomous driving systems powered by software

Milan Kovac’s background makes this appointment stand out because Tesla’s humanoid robot work is often seen as one of the boldest experiments in modern robotics.

A senior observer close to the tech ecosystem said it simply:
“When automakers start hiring robotics leaders, you know the race has shifted.”

What Hyundai Wants to Accelerate: AI, Robotics and Autonomous Vehicle Software

Hyundai Motor Group’s focus areas, with Kovac advising, include:

1) AI for smarter mobility

AI is the technology that helps machines learn patterns and make decisions. In cars, it can improve:

• Driving assistance features
• Navigation intelligence
• Safety alerts and road understanding

2) Robotics beyond factories

Robotics is no longer limited to industrial arms. It now includes systems that can:

• Support manufacturing precision
• Help in logistics and delivery
• Work in mobility services

3) Autonomous vehicle software

Autonomous vehicle software is the brain behind self-driving features. It handles:

• Sensor processing
• Real-time road decisions
• Driver support systems

One source summed it up in a line:
“The hardware is important, but software is what makes the car feel intelligent.”

Why Carmakers Are Chasing AI Talent Like Never Before

The auto world is changing fast. Companies are now competing on:

• How smart their vehicles are
• How quickly they can update software
• How safely AI can support driving
• How robotics can reduce cost and improve quality

This is why Hyundai’s decision matters. It shows the company is not only investing in technology—but also investing in the people who know how to build it.

As one industry insider described it:
“Talent is the new engine. Whoever hires best, builds fastest.”

Robotics Inside Cars: What It Could Mean for Drivers

When people hear “robotics,” they often imagine humanoid robots walking around. But in the car world, robotics can be much more practical.

It can support:

• Better automated parking systems
• Smarter driving assistance in traffic
• Faster manufacturing with fewer defects
• Improved safety monitoring

Hyundai’s move suggests it wants robotics to become part of its wider mobility ecosystem-connecting vehicles, software platforms, and real-world automation.

A Bigger Trend: Cars Becoming ‘Software Products’

A decade ago, a car was mostly defined by:

• Engine performance
• Design
• Mileage

Today, buyers also care about:

• Smart features
• Connected tech
• Safety automation
• Software upgrades

That’s why autonomous vehicle software and AI are now top priorities.

A tech observer said during the conversation around this shift:
“The best car in the future may not be the fastest. It may be the smartest.”

What This Means for Hyundai’s Future Mobility Plans

By bringing Milan Kovac on board as an adviser, Hyundai is signalling a stronger push toward:

• AI-led mobility systems
• Robotics integration across operations
• Faster progress in autonomous driving software

It also shows Hyundai is watching the global competition closely-and responding with serious moves, not just statements.

Conclusion

Hyundai Motor Group’s appointment of ex-Tesla humanoid robots program leader Milan Kovac as an adviser highlights its push to accelerate AI, robotics, and autonomous vehicle software, as automakers double down on next-gen mobility technology.