The South Korean group announced it will pour $26 billion into its U.S. operations between 2025 and 2028. It’s a move aimed at locking down Hyundai’s role in America’s automotive future, including steelmaking and robotics.

The carmaker explained the commitment builds on the $21 billion plan it rolled out earlier this year, now topped up by another $5 billion.

Executives framed it as a bet on long-term growth, technology, and jobs

The scale is significant: Hyundai says these projects should generate around 25,000 direct U.S. jobs by 2028.

Three pillars define the strategy. First, a new steel mill in Louisiana designed to secure supply chains and strengthen American industry.

Second, a sharp expansion of Hyundai and Kia’s U.S. auto production. This would allow the brands to react faster to changing demand in the world’s most competitive car market.

And third, a robotics facility with capacity to produce 30,000 units annually. The location would serve as a hub for design, testing, and deployment. In its press release, Hyundai pointed to Boston Dynamics and Motional, its U.S.-based tech affiliates, as partners helping accelerate robotics and autonomous driving breakthroughs.

Hyundai’s announcement underscores a larger trend: Automakers aren’t just building cars anymore

They’re chasing the next wave of mobility, blending artificial intelligence, robotics, and electrification into their portfolios. Hyundai’s playbook shows it wants American soil to be home base for much of that work.

GM, for example, backed away from its large-scale EV push. Instead, it’s considering offering those facilities to store AI data.

Policy pressure likely plays a role, too

With tariffs reshaping supply chains and U.S. leaders pushing for domestic manufacturing, Hyundai may see this as a hedge.

By planting roots deeper in America, the company reduces exposure to trade disputes. In the meantime, it could qualify for subsidies and tax incentives tied to U.S. production. It’s a defensive and offensive move all at once.