Innovation moves apace, even in the world of heavy machinery. That\u2019s the spirit behind CASE Construction Equipment\u2019s latest creation: the Impact concept, a compact wheel loader powered by a fully electric powertrain. In addition the vehicle is cab-free. it can work in tight, hazardous spaces without putting the operator at risk. While it does not have autonomous driving capabilities, it is steered remotely also from a dedicated control lounge office.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
![\"CNH](\"https:\/\/autodesignmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/2025090502_CNHImpact.jpg\")
<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>A technological marvel<\/strong><\/span> Electric and no use limitations<\/strong><\/span> Complete creative freedom<\/b><\/span>
\nDavid Wilkie, head of Industrial Design CNH, shares the inspiration behind the creation of this strikingly unconventional vehicle. \u201cThe Impact is a technological marvel\u201d, says Wilkie. \u201cIt brings together all the latest technology and, although designed for the future, it is closer to reality than you might imagine. It is fully functional and many features could go into production in the near future.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
\nThe decision to make it remote-controlled \u2013 the operator controls the vehicle from a distance of a few hundred metres \u2013 was dictated by the fact that this wheel loader has to work in hazardous environments such as quarries and construction sites, where the unexpected can always happen. The possibility of anyone getting hurt is thus eliminated\u201d.
\n\u201cBeing fully electric\u201d, adds Luca Fabbian, Concept Design Project Manager at CNH, \u201cit can work in places and at times when vehicles with internal combustion engines are prohibited. On a construction site in the city centre, or at night, a traditional vehicle would make too much noise. The Impact, on the other hand, is very quiet and has no such limitations\u201d.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
\nLet\u2019s talk design \u2014 because even in the world of heavy machinery, looks matter. While function shapes the form of a work vehicle, design is what gives it brand identity and product appeal. \u201cWe started with a blank canvas\u201d, says Jakub Sulikowski, Senior Designer at CNH and the driving force behind the project. \u201cAt first, there were no technical constraints \u2014 we had complete creative freedom\u201d. What followed was a wave of bold, visionary concepts that caught the attention of the company. The excitement grew, and soon the call came: take it beyond the drawing board and build a real, working concept.\u00a0 The designers then teamed up with Innovation Engineers , determined to turn vision into reality- without losing the powerful visual punch of the original sketches.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>