With the acquisition of ViSy GmbH, ZÖLLER-KIPPER and FAUN are combining their expertise in artificial intelligence and system integration.

Digitalization is noticeably changing the waste disposal industry. Systems are becoming more complex, data more comprehensive, and processes more transparent. With the integration of ViSy, ZÖLLER-KIPPER and FAUN are creating a network in which vehicle technology, sensor technology, AI, and cloud systems are systematically brought together for the first time.

We spoke about this with Dr. Bojan Ferhadbegović, Head of Development & Design at ZÖLLER-KIPPER and Managing Director of the subsidiary SCANTEC, and Markus Fick, Managing Partner & CEO of ViSy.

Dr. Bojan Ferhadbegović

What was the decisive reason for FAUN and ZOELLER to acquire ViSy GmbH?

Dr. Bojan Ferhadbegović:
The waste disposal vehicles of the coming years will be much more digitally oriented than they are today. We expect significant progress when vehicle technology and digital systems interact more closely. Many functions will only become possible when AI, image analysis, and sensor technology are directly linked to the control systems of the superstructures. Together with ViSy, this integration can now be implemented much more quickly and in a more targeted manner.

Markus Fick:
ViSy has always worked to make the working environment around waste collection vehicles more efficient and safer. The merger opens up technical possibilities that were previously only accessible to a limited extent in terms of vehicle integration. We can integrate functions more directly into the superstructures, coordinate processes better, and reduce user interfaces. At the same time, ViSy remains a reliable partner for existing customers – both in terms of service and technical exchange.

What role does ViSy’s technical focus play in this alliance?

Markus Fick:
For years, our focus has been on AI, image analysis, and environment monitoring. ToF sensor technology enables precise collision detection for static and moving objects. Since the end of 2024, we have been using a digital camera system with HDR support and integrated AI recognition that reliably identifies people and objects. Among other things, this data flows into the TourGuard Pro reversing assistant, which is GS-VL 40 certified and triggers active braking when reversing. BG Verkehr also approved this further development in 2024.

In addition, we use our telematics system to send vehicle data to the ViSy cloud ViSy.Online. Operators and local authorities can use this to access the digital reversing register – a tool that documents and evaluates reversing scenarios in a structured manner, including image material.

Where do you see the greatest synergy effects between the ViSy solutions and the existing digital systems from FAUN and ZOELLER?

Dr. Bojan Ferhadbegović:
The group already has digital platforms such as Kocofleet, the ZOELLER Service Portal, and SCANTEC’s intelligent debris detection system. ViSy adds further practical applications, such as municipal container management and the digital reverse register. Integration will enable much closer coordination of hardware and software in the future—from sensor and camera technology to AI connectivity and functions in lifters, presses, and superstructures. Data from environmental monitoring can be used, for example, to adjust settings in the compaction unit or to provide information on road conditions, which could also be relevant for sweepers in the future.

Markus Fick:
This uniformity in technical architecture is crucial for many future developments. Only through cooperation with ZÖLLER-KIPPER and FAUN can functions be realized that combine safety-oriented assistance systems and body functions. Rear monitoring, data from the Z-CAM, SHC functions, and AI recognition by ViSy can be mapped in a common structure in the future. This makes the systems more robust, easier to use, and technically more consistent.

How will AI change the future design and control of vehicles?

Dr. Bojan Ferhadbegović:

AI is a key component for the next generation of waste disposal vehicles. AI-supported camera systems assist personnel, increase safety during loading, and provide precise information about the immediate surroundings. This gives vehicles access to a range of data that enables more sophisticated and situational control. At the same time, clear data structures ensure transparency in processes—a prerequisite for continuous optimization based on real operating data.

The acquisition of ViSy creates a digital competence center within the group that goes far beyond the classic functions of assistance systems. The combination of AI, sensor technology, image evaluation, telemetric data processing, and deeply integrated vehicle technology creates a common architecture in which systems interact with each other, data is shared, and functions build on each other.

The trend for the coming years is clear: waste disposal vehicles will access more and more information, which will be systematically evaluated and translated into technical decisions. Systems will adapt to the environment, support staff, and increase process quality. The integration of ViSy is an essential technical building block for this – and an important step toward intelligently networked waste disposal logistics.

Markus Fick