Portable Winch Co. and STIHL Join Forces to Launch the APW6000, a Breakthrough in Battery- Powered Winching

At Equip Expo 2025, Portable Winch Co. officially unveiled the APW6000.

At Equip Expo 2025, Portable Winch Co. officially unveiled the APW6000, its first high-performance battery-powered winch developed in collaboration with STIHL, marking a major step forward for the Canadian manufacturer known worldwide for its portable capstan winches.

During a press conference held on October 23 at the company’s booth, founder and president Pierre Roy presented the new model to an audience of journalists, distributors, and industry professionals, calling it “a new chapter for Portable Winch Co. and for the future of professional winching.”

Was present Mr. Ryan Kropfelder, Senior Product Manager at STIHL USA, representing STIHL at the event. Mr. Roy also acknowledged Mr. Martin Schif, Director Battery Cooperations, Professional Battery Products, who played a key role in the development of the project alongside the engineering teams in Canada and Germany.

A Powerful Collaboration

The APW6000 is the result of a close collaboration between Portable Winch Co.’s engineering team in Sherbrooke, Canada, and STIHL’s development group in Germany.

By combining STIHL’s leadership in battery technology with Portable Winch Co.’s two decades of expertise in capstan winch design, the two companies have produced a machine that redefines what professionals can expect from a battery powered winch.

The collaboration was initiated as part of STIHL’s “Powered by STIHL” program — an initiative designed to open the brand’s professional-grade battery technology to select external manufacturers. The goal is to foster cooperation with industry leaders who share STIHL’s commitment to performance, safety, and innovation.

Portable Winch Co. is among the first companies worldwide to develop and launch a product within this program, making the APW6000 a flagship example of how STIHL’s AP System can extend beyond its own range of tools.

“This collaboration brought together two perfectly complementary strengths — STIHL’s world-class battery technology and our deep knowledge of portable winching,” said Mr. Roy. “Together, we’ve created something truly unique.”

Strength and Speed in a Portable Package

Delivering up to 3,300 pounds of pulling power while weighing just 29 pounds, the APW6000 offers the same reliability and rugged performance professionals expect from Portable Winch Co.’s products. The winch integrates STIHL’s advanced electronics and control interface (the same power unit used in the STIHL MSA 300 chainsaw), providing familiar handling for professionals already using STIHL’s battery tools.

Designed for demanding environments such as forestry, tree care, and construction, the APW6000 features a three-speed system (up to 53 ft/min) and a brushless motor equivalent to 4 HP, powered by STIHL’s AP Series batteries. Visit www.portablewinch.com for the complete list of specifications.

“It can operate all day in the field,” said Mr. Roy during his address. “It’s low maintenance, emission-free, and ready to go at the push of a button. For professionals who need dependable power anywhere, it’s truly a game changer.”

A Natural Fit in a Complete Range

All Portable Winch products are based on the capstan principle, using a rotating drum that allows operators to pull unlimited lengths of rope with consistent force — a design that makes the winches versatile, powerful, and safe.

The APW6000 joins the company’s existing lineup of gasoline-powered models (PCW3000, PCW4000, and PCW5000) and its smaller battery-powered model (PCW3000-Li), rounding out a range that now covers every professional application, from individual landowners to industrial crews.

Availability and Pricing

The APW6000 will be available in Spring 2026 through authorized Portable Winch dealers in Canada, the United States, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Norway, Sweden, and other key markets. Its suggested retail price will be around USD $1,995.

Many of Portable Winch Co.’s current dealers are also STIHL retailers, creating a strong synergy between the two brands. STIHL dealers interested in carrying the product are invited to contact Portable Winch Co. directly.

Starting today, professionals can also sign up via the company’s website to be notified as soon as the APW6000 becomes available in their region.

About Portable Winch Co.

Founded in Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada in 2003, Portable Winch Co. is recognized globally as a leader in innovative portable winching solutions. Its products are used by arborists, utility professionals, forestry workers, hunters, and outdoor specialists in over forty countries. With tens of thousands of units produced and sold worldwide, the company continues to expand its range through innovation, reliability, and a deep understanding of professional needs.