Hyundai Motor Group said Thursday it plans to develop an unmanned firefighting robot to deal with underground electric vehicle fires in underground parking lots.The automotive group said it will partner with the National Fire Agency to develop the firefighting robot by the end of the year and deploy them for real use starting in 2026.Hyundai Motor Group expressed its intention to provide firefighting equipment to the government through the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy in August.The fire agency proposed developing a fire suppression vehicle using Hyundai Rotem's multipurpose unmanned vehicle platform by equipping it with water cannons and enhancing its heat resistance.This photo provided by Hyundai Motor Group on Sept. 26, 2024, shows a rendered image of its envisioned unmanned firefighting robot for underground parking lot fires. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)This photo provided by Hyundai Motor Group on Sept. 26, 2024, shows a rendered image of its envisioned unmanned firefighting robot f or underground parking lot fires. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)Following further discussions and a demonstration of the vehicle platform this month, the parties reached a final agreement to co-develop the unmanned firefighting robot.The agency plans to deploy a prototype of the unmanned firefighting robot for trial operation in the first half of next year. Based on feedback, the agency aims to distribute updated units to regional special firefighting rescue teams by the end of 2026.The robot is expected to allow remote-controlled fire suppression, providing an effective solution for fires in underground facilities, where it is difficult or dangerous for firefighters to enter, the group said.Source: Yonhap News Agency