How steep can AS-Motor RC mowers operate?
• Ovis RC / Ovis EVO RC: up to 55°
• Tahr RC: up to 56°
• Sherpa RC: up to 33° in RC mode.
Designed and tested for maximum traction, safety and control on extreme slopes.
Remote-Controlled Mowers from AS-Motor
Work safely, mow efficiently, conquer difficult terrain. Designed for steep slopes up to 56° (148%)
Steep slopes, noise barriers, solar parks, railway embankments, dam faces, and other hazardous areas demand a professional solution. AS-Motor remote-controlled mowers bring together robust German engineering, maximum operator safety, and outstanding area performance.
With the AS 940 Sherpa 4WD RC, AS 1000 Ovis RC, AS 1000 Ovis EVO RC, and AS 990 Tahr RC, AS-Motor offers the most complete professional RC line-up for slope and high-grass mowing. Operators stay safely outside the danger zone, shielded from vibration, dust, heat, pollen, and insects, while the machine delivers up to 5,500 m² per hour.
Why choose an AS-Motor Remote-Controlled Mower?
Safety, productivity & durability in every detail.
- Operator safety first: Conquer slopes up to 56° without physical risk.
- Productivity gains: Bi-directional mowing, flail and rotary decks, hybrid ride-on/RC operation.
- Durability: Steel frames, long service intervals (up to 400 h), proven engines and hydrostats.
- Versatility: Flail mowers for dense vegetation, rotary decks for tall grass, mulching systems for clean results.
- Serviceability: Simple access to all components, minimal electrics, tool-free checks.
- Award-winning innovation: German Design Award and multiple Demopark medals confirm AS-Motor’s leadership.
Our Remote-Controlled Line-Up
Four machines. One mission: safe & efficient slope mowing.
The AS-Motor RC range combines decades of slope-mowing expertise with award-winning innovation. Each model is engineered for a specific challenge – whether it’s hybrid ride-on versatility, extreme flail power, operator comfort, or bi-directional efficiency. Together, the Sherpa RC, Ovis RC, Ovis EVO RC, and Tahr RC form the most complete professional line-up for steep slopes, dense vegetation, and hazardous terrain.
When to Use Which RC Model
A professional guide for every slope scenario.
Every landscape presents unique challenges. Some sites combine flat meadows with steep embankments, others demand constant precision or the fastest possible throughput on long banks. AS-Motor’s RC range is designed so there’s always a perfect match. Below you’ll find a quick orientation – then follow the links for our in-depth expert guides.
- Sherpa 4WD RC: For mixed sites with both flat areas and risky slopes.
- Ovis RC: For the steepest slopes and obstacle-rich areas.
- Ovis EVO RC: For extreme slopes where precision and adjustments are needed.
- Tahr RC: For long linear slopes where turnaround time kills productivity.
FAQ: Remote-Controlled Mowers Explained
Questions professionals really ask – about slope performance, safety, and daily use of AS-Motor RC mowers.
Remote-Controlled Mowers
What are the benefits of remote-controlled mowers?
Operators stay safely outside the hazard zone — protected from vibration, heat, noise, dust and pollen.
Machines reach higher slope performance and productivity while reducing fatigue and health risks.
Why is a remote-controlled mower better than a ride-on in steep terrain?
Conventional ride-ons are limited to about 10-18° slope angles. AS-Motor RC mowers can safely handle up to 56°,
removing the operator from risk zones while maintaining full control and performance.
Are remote-controlled mowers worth it?
Absolutely. They lower accident risks, boost productivity, and extend operator endurance.
Municipalities and contractors confirm a strong ROI due to reduced downtime and fewer injuries.
What’s the difference between flail and rotary decks?
Flail decks (Ovis models) excel in dense vegetation and produce even, mulched coverage ideal for slope stability.
Rotary decks (Sherpa & Tahr models) deliver speed and a clean finish in tall grass or open areas.
How much maintenance is required?
First service after 50 operating hours, then every 400 hours. Daily checks are tool-free and
easy thanks to open service positions and accessible components.
How are RC mowers transported?
Compact dimensions, integrated lashing points, and folding service covers make loading into
trailers or vans fast and safe — ideal for contractors on the move.
What applications are best suited to RC mowers?
Perfect for solar parks, noise barriers, roadside slopes,
dam embankments, railway banks, nature reserves and
retention basins — wherever safety and access matter most.
Evolution of the AS-Motor Remote-Controlled Line-Up
From the world’s first RC ride-on to bi-directional slope efficiency.
AS 940 Sherpa 4WD RC – Hybrid flexibility for mixed terrain
The world’s first ride-on mower with remote control. Operate manually on flat terrain for maximum output, or switch to RC mode for slopes up to 33°. Equipped with a closed mulching deck, permanent 4WD, and ergonomic comfort, the Sherpa RC set an industry benchmark.
Its groundbreaking concept was recognised with the Demopark 2017 Silver Medal, and the updated Sherpa 4WD XL was later honoured with the German Design Award 2023 for sustainable functional design.
In collaboration with Fraunhofer IVI and STW, Sherpa RC fleets have even been demonstrated operating autonomously via helyOS® software – proof of its future-ready engineering.
Key Advantages:
- Dual function: ride-on and remote control in one machine
- Permanent 4WD and surf mowing deck for perfect traction
- Closed mulching system for uniform results
- Ergonomic comfort and compact design for long shifts
- Tested for autonomous fleet operation
AS 1000 Ovis RC – Extreme slopes made simple
The professional flail mower for extreme slopes up to 55°. Compact 69 cm height allows mowing under obstacles and solar modules. Its purely mechanical design ensures simplicity, reliability, and long service life.
Developed from the Yak flail deck under the mantra “Simply Steep Mowing,” the Ovis RC embodies AS-Motor’s philosophy: as simple as possible, as robust as necessary.
Key Advantages:
Extreme slope performance up to 55°
- Compact 69 cm height for low-clearance applications
- Purely mechanical construction with minimal electronics
- Rugged flail system for dense and uneven vegetation
- Low ground pressure and easy servicing
AS 1000 Ovis EVO RC – Precision and comfort on demand
The Ovis platform, enhanced for comfort. Remote-controlled cutting height, electromechanical blade clutch, and quick-release hydrostats simplify workflows without compromising durability.
Perfect for contractors who demand precision and frequent adjustments in professional environments.
Key Advantages:
- Remote-controlled cutting height and blade clutch
- Real-time height display and quick-release hydrostats
- Maintains mechanical reliability with added operator comfort
- Designed for precision mowing in complex areas
- Ideal for professionals managing long or structured terrains
Coming soon: X-ACT Track – RTK assisted steering for higher productivity
Developed in partnership with TOPCON, X-ACT Track adds centimetre-precise lane guidance and steering assistance to the AS 1000 Ovis EVO RC.
Based on proven agricultural automation technology, it relieves operators from continuous steering, ensures perfect parallel mowing, and improves productivity with consistent results.
Key Advantages:
- RTK-level GPS accuracy for repeatable mowing paths
- Automatic steering and turn management
- Reduced operator fatigue during long work periods
- Proven automation technology adapted from agriculture
- Step toward fully autonomous mowing systems
AS 990 Tahr RC – Bi-directional efficiency for long slopes
Bi-directional mowing redefines efficiency. The tracked rotary deck cuts forward and backward, eliminating time-consuming turns on slopes. Handles grass up to 1.5 m tall and delivers up to 4,500 m²/h.
Ideal for long slopes in solar parks, dam faces, and nature reserves, the Tahr RC adapts the Sherpa rotary deck for remote-controlled use — a true revolution in slope productivity.
Key Advantages:
- Bi-directional mowing for maximum efficiency
- Rotary deck adapted from Sherpa design
- Excellent traction on long linear slopes
- Reduced wear and turnaround time
- Perfect for open terrains and tall grass
Customer Testimonials & Field Reports
Proven by professionals in the field.
AS-Motor RC machines are tested daily by municipalities, contractors, and service providers. Feedback confirms their safety, performance, and ecological benefits.
‘Not only is the Sherpa RC great to work with, it's also fun! [On switching from manual to remote control:] It's a simple operation and done in no time. Yes, and there are actually situations where manual operation makes more sense. For example, if you have a larger area to mow, you'll definitely be faster if you sit on it.’
‘The Sherpa is light and very capable off-road. If I get stuck with the mower in a very wet spot, I simply engage the differential lock and then get out again without any problems. The agricultural tyres also ensure that the tread does not get clogged up in wet terrain.’
Future Outlook / Autonomous Systems
From remote control to full autonomy.
Automation is reshaping professional mowing technology.
What began as manual operation on slopes has evolved through remote-controlled mowers and is now moving steadily toward automation. In the machinery industry, autonomous systems are often categorised into six levels:
- 1. Manual operation – the operator performs all tasks and controls all functions.
- 2. Assisted systems – the machine provides support via sensors or alerts (for example tilt-warnings, obstacle detection).
- 3. Partial automation – certain functions such as steering, speed or path keeping are automated while the operator still supervises.
- 4. Conditional automation – the machine operates autonomously in defined conditions, while the operator monitors and intervenes if needed.
- 5. High automation – the machine functions independently for extended periods, with minimal human intervention.
- 6. Full autonomy – the machine executes tasks entirely on its own, with no human input required.
At present, the RC machines from AS‑Motor operate between Levels 2 and 3 – combining remote control with some automated assistance – positioning them for a future of more autonomous slope-maintenance.
X-ACT Track: The First Step Toward Smart Automation
The introduction of X-ACT Track steering assistance on the AS 1000 Ovis EVO RC marks a decisive milestone in this evolution.
Using RTK-corrected GPS guidance, the system takes over precise steering and lane keeping – allowing operators to focus on safety-critical zones and transitions. The result: perfectly aligned mowing paths, higher area performance, and less operator fatigue.
X-ACT Track integrates proven agricultural automation technology from TOPCON, translating it into the world of steep-slope mowing. Operators can choose between A–B line repetition, curved line repetition, or fully automatic pattern mowing, depending on terrain and task. Each mode maintains centimetre-level precision, maximising both productivity and surface quality.
This development demonstrates how automation assists rather than replaces the professional user – making long shifts easier, safer, and more efficient.
Sherpa RC Fleets & helyOS® research project: A Glimpse into Full Autonomy
At Demopark 2023, AS-Motor, together with the Fraunhofer IVI and Sensor-Technik Wiedemann GmbH (STW), presented a groundbreaking demonstration:
a fleet of three AS 940 Sherpa 4WD RC machines mowing autonomously across a defined area – controlled and monitored through the helyOS® control tower software.
The system coordinates each mower’s route, speed, and position in real time, allowing one operator to oversee multiple machines either on-site or remotely from a control centre.
Connectivity modules like the STW TCG-4 manage vehicle automation, data exchange, and communication via WLAN or LTE, while helyOS® translates mission data into precise path commands.
This demonstration proved that networked, semi-autonomous mowing fleets are no longer a distant vision – they are the logical continuation of AS-Motor’s RC philosophy.
With automation levels gradually increasing, the goal is clear:
👉 Safe, efficient, and autonomous slope maintenance – made in Germany.
Conclusion
German engineering. Award-winning innovation. Future-ready.
AS-Motor’s RC mowers embody the progression of German engineering: from the Sherpa’s ride-on roots, to the robust simplicity of the Ovis, the comfort-oriented Ovis EVO, and the revolutionary bi-directional Tahr. Together they cover every slope and hazard scenario, ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable mowing. Professionals, municipalities, and service providers can trust AS-Motor RC technology to transform dangerous “problem zones” into productive, manageable workspaces. With innovation recognised by international awards and a clear trajectory towards autonomous fleets, AS-Motor remains the benchmark for professional steep-slope mowing.
Get Started Today
Made in Germany. Built for professionals. Trusted by municipalities.
Every slope is different, but the challenge is always the same: safe, efficient, and reliable mowing. With AS-Motor remote-controlled mowers, you gain access to machines that are tested on the steepest embankments, trusted by municipalities across Europe, and recognised with international awards.
Whether you manage solar parks, roadside embankments, dam faces, or nature reserves, our RC line-up delivers the performance and safety your team needs. Experience German engineering at its best – machines designed for decades of service, long maintenance intervals, and ecological mowing results.
