KFX by PistenBully saves time and money

Laupheim, 19.03.2025. With the unique KFX fast exchange system from Kässbohrer for the rapid attachment and removal of rear attachments in under 30 seconds, an exceptionally efficient, flexible and targeted use of the PistenBully with or without a tiller is possible. That’s how hundreds of hours and up to 20% fuel can be saved over the course of a season. This is because the tool-free coupling and uncoupling of the tiller - without leaving the vehicle - not only ensures greater efficiency, but also cost savings, convenience and greater safety.   

Minimizing operating costs across the board 
The reasons for this development are obvious: saving time and fuel saves money. Coupling and uncoupling in a matter of seconds reduces labor costs and reduces the weight of the vehicle by 1,200 kg and thus fuel consumption. Thanks to KFX, you are also much more spontaneous and can dismantle the tiller more easily and more often when it is not needed. Working without a tiller also reduces the load on the main frame and implement carrier as well as the risk of expensive collision damage and makes maneuvering easier in tight situations. The result: less damage and wear and tear and therefore additional savings on maintenance costs. The lower weight also gives the driver more thrust and climbing power, for example when approaching the anchor point. Without the additional weight of the tiller, pushing in the slope is also more efficient. If necessary, the tiller can be re-coupled in just a few seconds, the KFX locks securely and automatically, and preparation can begin. 

Test also passed in the USA 
The intensive test phase is now over - and all the stumbling blocks have been eliminated. A number of test customers in the European Alps used the system and provided insightful information on how to optimize the KFX. In January, the big performance took place at Palisades Tahoe Ski Resort in California, USA. During the demonstration, the many customers in attendance were able to test the functionality of the device in detail. Then it was straight on to Mammoth Mountain - for a very special job: the lift exit at “Chair 23”.  

When it gets tight, it has to go 
There is not much space at the top of this lift for maneuvering and backloading - almost impossible with the attached tiller. It has to be disconnected and reconnected every time. In the past, this was a complex, manual process that required tools, knowledge of hydraulic hoses and a lot of time. Caleb Miller, Director of Slope Maintenance at Mammoth, explained before using the KFX: “When we have to disconnect the tiller, it always takes about 10-12 minutes.” Once all the hydraulic hoses and pivot bolts have been disconnected, it then takes another 10-12 minutes to reconnect them after use. That's why he was very confident from the outset “that using KFX would save us a lot of time.”  And indeed, Caleb was able to complete the lift exit in record time, leaving his tiller outside the building while he worked. In hindsight, Caleb was even more impressed with PistenBully's innovative snow groomer. This is because the drivers can now quickly and easily remove and reattach the tiller without having to leave the PistenBully cab. This simplification drastically reduces the time and effort required - to less than 30 seconds. “The KFX has made the work at the top of Chair 23 incredibly quicker,” he reports. “It's a great system that you should definitely have. Super simple and fast... It saves us a lot of time.” 

And all this for both winch and solo vehicles.