Seoul: The market capitalization of Hyundai Motor Co. on Tuesday surpassed the 100 trillion-won (US$67.7 billion) milestone for the first time, fueled by growing investor optimism regarding its robotics and autonomous driving initiatives, industry watchers reported.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Hyundai Motor's share price climbed as high as 496,500 won during early trading, momentarily elevating the company's market capitalization to over 101.66 trillion won. However, the gains were reversed by afternoon trading as the share price closed 0.21 percent lower at 479,000 won, reducing its market capitalization to 98.9 trillion won.

Industry observers have identified Hyundai Motor's robotics strategy as a primary driver of the recent surge in its stock price. Boston Dynamics, Hyundai's U.S.-based robotics affiliate, recently introduced its next-generation humanoid robot, Atlas, alongside an artificial intelligence (AI) robotics road map. Hyundai's autonomous driving strategy is also considered a crucial factor contributing to investor optimism.

Motional, a joint venture between Hyundai Motor and a U.S. partner, aims to commercialize a fully driverless Level 4 robotaxi service in Las Vegas by the end of 2026. Market analysts have noted that investors are beginning to acknowledge the commercialization potential of humanoid robotics for Hyundai Motor.

"As preparations for commercialization accelerate, momentum (for Hyundai) is expected to extend through 2028," stated Hanwha Investment and Securities in a recent report.