Shimizu invests in Noble Machines to develop MOBY humanoid robots for construction sites
Announced · Published · By Contractor AI Shop
Japanese contractor Shimizu completed an undisclosed investment in Sunnyvale-based Noble Machines. The two will adapt MOBY humanoid robots for sites, starting virtual simulations with Shimizu's building data by the end of 2026 and physical site tests in spring 2027.
Key facts
- Shimizu says the first tasks are transporting materials and equipment, navigating sites and conducting patrols. Shimizu Corporation
- Shimizu says the work combines virtual simulations using its BIM/CIM data with testing at actual sites. Shimizu Corporation
- Business+IT reports Shimizu did not disclose the investment amount. Business+IT (ビジネス+IT)
- Robot24 reports physical testing at construction sites is scheduled to start in spring 2027 and the partnership is still at the development stage. Robot24
Our take: what it means for contractors
This is big-GC research, not something a sub can buy. The tasks are hauling and patrols, not skilled trade work, and site trials are still more than a year out. Worth watching alongside the other construction robot deals this month.
What we don't know yet
- Investment size and stake
- Cost per robot
- Whether trials move beyond hauling and patrols
Sources
- Shimizu Corporation · Shimizu Completes Investment in U.S. Robotics Startup Noble Machines Inc. · 2026-10-16 · Primary
- Business+IT (ビジネス+IT) · 清水建設、米Noble Machinesに出資完了 建設用ヒューマノイドAIロボットを共同開発 · 2026-10-18 · Secondary
- Robot24 · Shimizu Backs Humanoids as Origin Raises $20M · 2026-10-16 · Secondary