Gravis Robotics secures $200m from SoftBank, reaching $1bn valuation
Swiss AI startup Gravis Robotics, specializing in automating heavy construction equipment, has raised $200 million in Series A funding from SoftBank, achieving a $1 billion valuation. The company's AI models enable autonomous operation of industrial machinery, boosting productivity by up to 30%.
Swiss startup Gravis Robotics has closed a $200 million Series A funding round led by SoftBank, propelling its valuation to $1 billion. The company develops AI-driven automation systems for heavy construction equipment, enabling tasks such as digging, excavating, and autonomous fleet management.
The investment follows a $23 million round in 2023, backed by IQ Capital, Armada Investment Group, Zacua Ventures, and building materials manufacturer Holcim. Gravis Robotics, a 2022 spinout from ETH Zurich, trains its AI models using simulated environments where virtual machinery processes billions of cubic yards of earth, refining their interaction with real-world terrain.
AI-Powered Construction Automation
Gravis Robotics offers a range of software solutions, from operator-assist tools with real-time 3D guidance and hazard detection to full autonomy, allowing operators to oversee AI-controlled fleets. The company claims its systems improve jobsite productivity by up to 30%, addressing a growing demand for infrastructure amid labor shortages.
The startup’s technology can be retrofitted onto existing machinery, and it collaborates with major construction brands, including Caterpillar, Hitachi, and Volvo. CEO Ryan Luke emphasized the need for innovation in earth-moving operations, calling it a bottleneck in infrastructure development.
| Funding Round | Amount Raised | Lead Investor |
|---|---|---|
| Series A | $200 million | SoftBank |
| Previous | $23 million | Multiple VCs |
European Robotics Funding Surge
The investment reflects a broader trend in European robotics, with startups raising €2.67 billion in the first half of 2026-surpassing the €2.28 billion raised in the prior two years combined. Gravis Robotics’ rapid growth underscores the potential of AI-driven automation in transforming construction efficiency.
Source: Sifted