What began with a TV program is today one of the most innovative addresses for electric drive technology in the off-highway sector
The story of I&W Engineering shows how everyday observation, technical ambition, and entrepreneurial courage can give rise to a company that today sets benchmarks in the development of smart electric motors.
It all started with asparagus
The founding story of I&W Engineering is not only unusual, but also symbolic of creative engineering. It was a television program about the laborious harvesting of asparagus that literally electrified founder Adrian Iklé. The images of physically demanding fieldwork made one thing clear to him: This must be automatable.
The idea of an asparagus-harvesting robot was quickly born. But when trying to technically realize this vision, Iklé encountered a central problem: there was no suitable electric drive that met the specific requirements of an autonomous agricultural robot — neither in terms of performance, design, nor controllability.
From problem to solution, and from solution to company
What would have been the end of a project for many became the starting point for Adrian Iklé. “Then I’ll just develop a drive myself,” was the simple but far-reaching decision. Without external support, but with a strong dose of curiosity, technical intuition, and persistence, he began researching, experimenting, and eventually created his first prototype: the M3 e-drive.
With the M3, the first milestone was set. But it soon became clear: the idea had potential far beyond asparagus fields. Increasingly, companies from the off-highway sector — such as construction, municipal, or forestry vehicles — expressed interest. Here too, efficient, robust, and customizable electric drive solutions were in short supply.
“When we couldn’t find a suitable drive, it was clear: then we’d just develop it ourselves.” – Adrian Iklé, founder of I&W Engineering
From one-off project to engineering brand
The next logical step: the one-off project became a company. I&W Engineering was born. The transition from agricultural robots to off-highway applications happened organically, driven by inquiries and concrete needs from industry.
Today, I&W Engineering develops tailor-made electric drives for a wide variety of vehicle types that must operate reliably under tough conditions — whether off-road, on construction sites, or in municipal infrastructure.
But beyond technical precision, what matters most to Iklé and his team is the spirit of shared development. “Without a team, none of this would have been possible,” emphasizes the founder. The former lone fighter became a team player, with a team that shares his vision.
Engineering with attitude: the values behind the technology
What distinguishes I&W Engineering is not just technical expertise, but also a clear set of values. Collaboration on equal footing, creative problem-solving, and the pursuit of true innovation are central pillars of the corporate culture.
The focus is on:
- Teamwork as the basis of technical excellence
- Customer centricity to create solutions for real challenges
- Sustainability through durable, energy-efficient products
- Quality as a non-negotiable promise
These values also shape everyday operations. Instead of rigid hierarchies, I&W Engineering cultivates a culture of openness and collaboration — a key reason the company thrives in a highly dynamic industry.
The path to future mobility – made by I&W
The market for electric drive systems in off-highway vehicles is evolving. Requirements are increasing, and the range of applications is growing — from municipal vehicles to agricultural machinery to modular robotics platforms.
With its modular drive technology, focus on individual customer solutions, and deep understanding of industry-specific challenges, I&W Engineering has established itself as a pioneering partner in this field.
The company thinks not only in terms of performance, but also interfaces, integration, serviceability, and system compatibility. Because a good drive does not work in isolation — it is embedded in an ecosystem of control, power supply, and operating environment.
Where technology meets conviction
I&W Engineering is an example of how a vision from everyday life can lead to real technological innovation. What began with a TV report on asparagus harvesting is now a company with a clear mission: to develop drive technology that works where other systems fail.
With a dedicated team, a clear compass of values, and the ability to adapt flexibly to new challenges, I&W Engineering is shaping mobility in the off-highway sector — quietly, powerfully, and efficiently.