Custom Electrification of a Crawler Tractor

A crawler tractor for steep-slope applications was electrified with new motor technology, inverters, PLUS+1 control and optimised cabling. The result: a precisely controllable and easily expandable overall system.

Custom Electrification of a Crawler Tractor

The NIKO E.40 is a compact, fully electric crawler tractor designed specifically for use in steep vineyards. With its robust construction, high climbing ability and agile handling, it meets the highest demands for stability, safety and efficiency.

In the project, the existing system was replaced with a more powerful, finely controllable and easily expandable solution. Mechanical integration, new drive components, modern control and software architecture now form a complete system perfectly tailored to the operating environment.

The challenge

In daily operation, it became clear that the existing system could no longer meet increasing requirements for performance, ease of use and future expandability. The existing controller offered no upgrade options for sensors or actuators, which also limited the software – new machine features could no longer be added.

  • Insufficient driving dynamics: The installed technology was too weak and lacked precise speed control
  • Outdated control system: The previous controller did not support extensions or modern functions
  • Lack of flexibility: Adaptations for future application requirements were no longer feasible
  • High integration demands: New components had to be precisely integrated into the existing frame and electrical architecture

The solution

Together with the customer, we developed a modern overall solution that aligns performance, control and system architecture with the needs of steep-slope operation.

  • Powerful I&W M160i3 traction motors: Mechanically integrated into the existing vehicle frame
  • DMC Super Sigma 2 inverter: Compact and precise power regulation
  • PLUS+1 XL104 controller: Central control of all drive and work functions
  • DM430e display: Clear and user-friendly visualisation of all key data
  • New software architecture: Enables cruise control, smooth driving and future extensions
  • Optimised cabling: Complete rewiring for high reliability and clean integration

Value-added

Thanks to the new electric drive solution, the customer now operates a machine that offers significantly higher performance, more precise control and improved operator comfort. Especially in steep terrains like vineyards, the precision of the driving system proves invaluable. The system architecture is open to extensions and provides real future-proofing for electric operation on slopes. As a result, the crawler tractor is not only up to date technically, but also built to be adaptable and ready for long-term use.

Your advantages

This project shows how existing machines can be economically electrified and adapted to modern requirements – especially in compact, steep or control-sensitive applications.

Custom electrification solutions

Suitable for special-purpose vehicles, existing machines or small series

Modular component selection

Flexible combination of motors, inverters and control systems

Future-proof control platform

Expandable via PLUS+1 software and hardware functions

Perfect for demanding conditions

Ideal for vineyards, steep slopes, municipal or specialised applications

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