Hyundai Rotem to unveil unmanned firefighting robot

South Korea's Hyundai Rotem Co. unveiled on Thursday an unmanned firefighting robot designed to tackle fires in hazardous environments without risking firefighter safety 

The firefighting robot, showcased at the 2024 Asia Machinery & Manufacturing Expo (AMXPO) at KINTEX in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, is based on Hyundai Rotem's HR-Sherpa platform, a multi-purpose unmanned electric vehicle.

The HR-Sherpa, remotely and autonomously operated, can undertake tasks in dangerous settings.

It is configurable with various equipment, offering flexibility for military and civilian applications.

Making its debut at AMXPO, the robot is intended for fire suppression in high-risk areas such as underground fires, where smoke and heat limit firefighter access.

Controlled wirelessly, the robot is equipped with a thermal sensor camera to identify ignition points, and then extinguishes flames using a 65mm fire hose.

It will include protective features such as an insulating cover and self-spray system to safeguard against extreme heat.

Hyundai Rotem announced plans to complete a prototype by year-end and conduct a demonstration next year in cooperation with the National Fire Agency.

After testing, the company aims to supply four units to the agency.

Write to Jin-Won Kim at jin1@hankyung.com