In 2025, the construction industry is undergoing a significant transformation with the introduction of Zyrex, a 20-foot-tall AI-powered construction robot developed by RIC Robotics in Fontana, California. Dubbed the “Hulk” of construction robots, Zyrex is designed to address critical industry challenges such as labor shortages and safety concerns.

Zyrex is equipped with 26 degrees of freedom and interchangeable tool modules, enabling it to perform a variety of tasks including welding, carpentry, 3D printing, and material handling. Its advanced Vision-Language-Action (VLA) AI models, combined with LiDAR and visual sensors, allow it to navigate complex job sites under human supervision, with plans to achieve full autonomy by 2026.

The robot’s development is a response to the projected need for over 439,000 skilled construction workers in the U.S. in 2025 and the industry’s high fatality rates, with 1,075 deaths reported in 2023. By automating hazardous tasks, Zyrex aims to enhance safety and efficiency on construction sites.

Building on the success of RIC Robotics’ earlier models, such as the RIC-M1 Pro—which completed a Walmart warehouse extension in Alabama ahead of schedule—Zyrex is expected to be a cost-effective solution. The company estimates its price to be under $1 million, with leasing options starting below $20,000 per month.

Zyrex represents a significant leap forward in construction technology, promising to revolutionize the industry by integrating AI and robotics to create smarter, safer, and more efficient building practices.