Prinoth

FURTHER TRIUMPHS

Prinoth’s expertise in snow groomers, tracked vehicles and vegetation management equipment has put the business on the fast lane to success, with a global reach encompassing more than 120 countries. A recent acquisition in the US, and breakthroughs in sustainable technologies, have enabled the company to hit top gear for future business growth. Profile by Andy Probert.

With a unique overarching presence in the markets of snow groomers, tracked vehicles and vegetation management equipment, Prinoth is adept at riding the highs and lows of its diversified business units.

Constant forward motion appears to be the Italian-headquartered company’s intentions, given it has recently announced a major acquisition in the US and released

sustainable innovations that have piqued interest across the industry.

As part of the High Technology Industries (HTI) Group, Prinoth has long engendered a pioneering spirit, which first flowed from founder, Formula One racing driver and design engineer, Ernst Prinoth.

He opened an automotive garage in Gröden in 1951, but soon the native of Val Gardena found a way to translate his

passion for powerful vehicles into something practical: snow groomers, ideal for the wintry conditions of his South Tyrolean home.

In 1962, he created his first P 60 prototype and the first production vehicle rolled off the assembly line two years later. The family company was later acquired by Leitner, and continued the range as an independent company under the Prinoth name.

As the world’s most complete provider of snowcats, Prinoth acquired the groomer range of Canadian manufacturer Camoplast in 2005, and also its tracked utility vehicle range in 2009.

With additional equipment of all types, thanks to their tracks, the vehicles can reach the remotest locations without sinking into mud or soft soil, unlike wheeled vehicles.

Following the 2011 takeover of the German forestry machinery manufacturer AHWI, Prinoth expanded its activities in vegetation management, with the cost-effective processing of forestry and agricultural land.

Reliable, efficient, excellent performers

With such a highly versatile range, the company has enjoyed phenomenal growth and can lay claim to selling its vehicle ranges across more than 120 countries.

“A Prinoth vehicle is characterised by excellent performance, efficiency and reliability,” commented President of Prinoth, Klaus Tonhäuser.

The HTI Group, with a €1 billion turnover, employs over 3,800 people across 70 affiliates and 131 sales and service points globally.

Prinoth employs more than 800 people at production plants in Italy, Canada, Germany and USA. Exports account for about 90% of its business, of which half is dedicated to snow grooming.

“Pre-Covid, Prinoth enjoyed doubledigit growth across its three divisions,” remarked Mr Tonhäuser. “Despite the impact of the pandemic, it has seen continued growth in tracked vehicles and vegetation management equipment.”

Major acquisition

In October 2021, Prinoth acquired Jarraff Industries Inc, a privately-owned American company specialising in the design, manufacturing and commercialisation of high quality, specialised rightof-way maintenance, land clearing and tree care equipment.

Jarraff Industries of Minnesota, has secured preferred-supplier status with most national, regional, and local right-

of-way maintenance contractors, utility companies, and tree care companies in the United States.

Mr Tonhäuser said the acquisition is “ a positive, strategic fit for both companies”, adding: “Jarraff Industries brings a line-up of highly specialised equipment that will enhance and be a perfect complement to the existing line of Prinoth products.

“It confirms our commitment to invest and grow our presence in the specialised

President of Prinoth, Klaus Tonhäuser.

off-road equipment business and positions

Prinoth in the high-demand utilities rightof-way and maintenance segment.

“Jarraff’s specialised product portfolio and strong presence in these critical market segments will provide our customers access to industry-leading products backed by our brand, distribution and manufacturing experience.”

Prinoth’s vegetation management comprises a broad range of innovative tracked vehicles, powerful mulchers and sustainable solutions for clearing and re-cultivating forest areas, keeping power line clearing lanes free and transforming unused scrubland into agricultural or forestry land. While focusing on cost-effective machining, it is set to expand its range of biomass solutions.

Pioneering innovation to the fore

Across all divisions, Prinoth prides itself on evolving innovation in many different directions to ensure its cutting-edge machines are on-trend and appreciated by clients.

Its innovative technologies, high-tech designs, and maximum efficiency, have been confirmed with Prinoth developing two new world-first snow groomers.

“Until now, the operation of snow groomers has been linked to the consumption of diesel,” said Mr Tonhäuser. But that is set to change with its two new concept snow groomers – the LEITWOLF h2MOTION and the HUSKY eMOTION.

The LEITWOLF h2MOTION is the world’s first hydrogen-powered snow groomer,

while the HUSKY eMOTION is the lightest electric snow groomer on the market.

“These zero-emission vehicles will help contribute to carbon-neutral skiing while providing ski resorts with perfect slopes,” he asserted.

Sustainability is a commitment

“With the LEITWOLF h2MOTION, our development teams have achieved the connection between zero-emission propulsion and undiminished power. This model meets all performance-related requirements and achieves 100% elimination of fossil fuels.”

A comparison with the diesel LEITWOLF shows the new, hydrogen-powered version has not lost any of its outstanding technological values and at 544 hp (400kW), surpasses the diesel engine’s power.

“We hope this begins a new era of slope preparation, which will positively impact

the eco-balance of entire skiing areas,” commented Mr Tonhäuser. “In recent years, ski resorts have been investing significant sums in sustainability concepts.

“Besides the focus on sustainable energy generation and the increased use of regional resources, ecologically responsible slope management is a priority.”

With the HUSKY eMOTION, the manufacturer has set a new benchmark in the winter sports industry, helping to pave the way for sustainable skiing.

He added: “The electric-driven unit is close to serial production, while the hydrogen-powered snow groomer will be undergoing further concept development. Sustainability is not just a word for us; it’s a commitment.”

Dedication to sustainability will remain a significant focus for the company moving forward, with a high commitment to reducing carbon foot-

print and increasing energy efficiency across its production plants.

Anywhere, anytime Mr Tonhäuser commented: “One of the key decisions during the pandemic was consistent investment in our people and in R&D to ensure we come out stronger than when we went into the first wave of Covid-19. We have shown our willingness to invest during difficult times.”

He added: “Our biggest challenges revolves around the supply chain. It is a big challenge at this point, but we are still fulfilling our plans with extra work and synergies between suppliers, us and clients.”

According to the company’s President, Prinoth differentiates itself in the market thanks to its exceptional customer service and customer orientation.

“Clients know they can rely on us whenever and wherever they need us. Our equipment is found in the remotest places on earth, but we are still highly committed to meeting our client’s needs.

“Clients and suppliers know us for our honesty, transparency, trust and fostering long-term business relationships.”

Underscoring those values, in 2019, Prinoth unveiled a vehicle unlike any other in the world designed to transport huge loads with less personnel and less impact on the environment.

The transport vehicle concept was created for Troll, the Norwegian Antarctica Station, with the aim to reduce overall operational costs through lower fuel consumption, reduced transport time, and minimise the number of people dedicated to transporting fuel and goods in the Antarctic region.

“This project certainly proved to everyone that Prinoth is ready to take on the challenges provided by some of Earth’s harshest environments,” he added.

Mr Tonhäuser concluded: “As an expert partner, our vehicles are designed for practical everyday needs and can meet the most diverse requirements of customers anywhere. We are a forward-thinking company that invests in our people, and cares for its suppliers and clients.” n