Earlier this year, Hyundai Motor and Kia’s Robotics LAB conducted two rounds of field tests in collaboration with the RDA—in May and September—to evaluate the effectiveness of the X-ble Shoulder in agricultural environments. Using electromyography (EMG) sensors, the tests measured changes in deltoid muscle activity during high-load shoulder tasks. The results showed that wearing the X-ble Shoulder reduced shoulder muscle activation by approximately 22 percent, confirming its potential to alleviate shoulder joint load for farmers.
The collaborators will establish a framework for integrating wearable robot into agricultural practices, demonstrate and expand their application in farming environments, and promote awareness of this technology at agricultural sites. Hyundai Motor and Kia plan to validate the usability of the X-ble Shoulder in farming conditions, share insights and develop optimized, agriculture-tailored solutions while actively communicating the results to support broader adoption.
The RDA will play a critical role in supporting the demonstration and usability assessments of wearable robot in the field, identifying demand sources, and connecting with related institutions to facilitate wider adoption. Additionally, the RDA will produce and distribute educational content showcasing the progress of this collaboration.
Since its launch in November last year, Hyundai Motor and Kia have been exploring the application of X-ble Shoulder across a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, construction, shipbuilding and agriculture. Following the first delivery to Korean Air in July 2025, the companies have expanded supply to clients such as Korea Railroad Corporation (KORAIL), Hyundai Transys and Hyundai Rotem, further broadening the application of wearable robot across industrial sectors.
For inquiries about obtaining the X-ble Shoulder, please visit Hyundai Motor and Kia’s official Robotics LAB website.