Three Years of KFX Put to the Test: Quick-Change System Proves Its Value in Daily Slope Operations
Field Report from Steibis – Slope Manager Thomas Neyer Gives Positive Review
Easier on operators and machines: Without a tiller attached, the PistenBully is more maneuverable, experiences less wear, and is safer—especially in tight areas like push lanes or terrain parks.
Laupheim, 15 September 2025. For the past three winters, the Imbergbahn and Skiarena Steibis ski resort in the Allgäu region has relied on the KFX quick-change system. As one of the first pilot locations, the resort was involved in product development from the very beginning. Now, after years of daily use, the verdict is clear: the system is robust, saves time and costs, and has been widely embraced by operators.
Proven in Real Conditions – KFX Passes Long-Term Test
Three years ago, during its test phase, the KFX system was trialed in real operating conditions using multiple prototypes—Steibis was on board from day one. Since then, the system has been continuously refined. The long-term results speak for themselves: “In three years, we’ve only had one cable break early on—other than that, the system has run completely trouble-free,” says slope manager Thomas Neyer.
Technical Benefits: Less Stress and Wear
In day-to-day use, the KFX quick-change system stands out for its technical reliability and the clear advantages it delivers to crews. One of the biggest benefits is its simple and fast operation: the tiller can be attached or removed in just 20 to 30 seconds—directly from the driver’s seat, without tools, and with camera assistance. This makes switching tools part of the normal workflow—without wasting time: “If the driver knows they’ll be pushing snow for 20 minutes, they just uncouple the tiller—sometimes five times in one evening,” Neyer explains.
Economical and Practical
Uncoupling the tiller during pure pushing work significantly reduces strain on the carrier vehicle. This lowers overall machine wear—the drive train, tracks, running axles, and tiller all last longer. The reduced total weight also means lower fuel consumption.
Neyer sees major savings potential: “Exact savings depend on terrain and driving habits, but I think a 10% reduction in fuel use is absolutely realistic.” Preventing just one case of damage can also save serious money, as spare parts for a tiller or frame can quickly become expensive. “Everyone knows what it costs to repair a tiller. If you avoid just one major repair, the system has already paid for itself,” says Florian Reichart, Managing Director of Imbergbahn and Ski-Arena Steibis GmbH & Co. KG.
The system also shines in tricky areas like slope edges, push lanes, and terrain parks. Without a bulky rear attachment, operators can work more safely and accurately—with less risk of hitting poles or damaging features.The practical added value is particularly evident when working at the edge of the slope, in push lanes, or in fun parks: without a bulky rear attachment, there is no risk of overlooking objects such as poles or damaging slope elements. This increases safety and precision at work.
Conclusion: Well-Engineered and Proven in the Field
For Steibis, the KFX quick-change system delivers both technical and practical benefits—improving efficiency, safety, and operator comfort. “The system makes our work noticeably easier. It’s reliable, fast, and resource-efficient—for us, it’s become an indispensable part of operations,” says Neyer.
The KFX stands for efficiency that operators can feel. After more than three years of testing, its durability and practicality have made it a trusted tool - KFX is here to stay.
Thomas Neyer, Slope Manager at Steibis: “The system is robust, well-designed, and makes our work significantly easier.”
Efficient use: The KFX quick-change system allows tool-free coupling and uncoupling from inside the cab—in less than 30 seconds.
Long-term durability: After three winters and over 2,000 operating hours, Steibis reports no deformation or structural wear on the KFX system.
Florian Reichart, Managing Director, Imbergbahn and Skiarena Steibis GmbH & Co. KG
KFX in action: The tiller can be attached or detached in seconds—without tools, directly from the driver’s seat.
