WIR 01/2021 [EN]

The Customer Magazine of the Doppelmayr/Garaventa Group Issue 1/2021 46th Year/No. 212
World premiere:
AURO
The autonomous ropeway
Deployment
near Lake
Constance
Repair on the Pfänder tramway
News from
South Korea
Ropeways for the entire country
10-MGD AURO 2 Tuftern–Tufterchumma–Unterrothorn, Zermatt (CHE)

2 Contents
6
AURO: Autonomous Ropeway Operation
The fi rst autonomous D-Line ropeway has been opened in Zermatt (CHE). The 10-passenger
Kumme gondola lift impresses with high capacity, attractive design and the very latest technology.
23
15
Ropeway ride to temple
India’s fi rst gondola lift from Doppelmayr/Garaventa provides access to the sacred Mount Girnar.
First 6-seater D-Line chairlift
for New Zealand
All the stops were pulled out to complete
the Sugar Bowl Express amid the worldwide
Covid-19 pandemic.

Foreword
3
14
What we value
The fresh air, the snow, the sound of carving turns on the piste, the sense of
freedom, the exercise, the thrill of a downhill run and, of course, the lifts. All
these things come to mind when we think of winter. And we are not the only
ones. Many people conjure up the same memories.
Red and yellow
The new Zwölferhorn lift in St. Gilgen am Wolfgangsee (AUT)
retains its traditional colors for the 8-passenger cabins.
A lot will be different this winter. There are new rules, and uncertainty is darkening
the mood in many areas. On the other hand, this makes one thing all the
more clear. Considerate behavior towards others, looking out for each other and
a responsible attitude towards nature should always be our focus. And not just
in times of a global pandemic.
We remain confident that we can do this. So that tourism can once again take
place without worry at all the popular destinations of this world and we can return
to the places where we feel at ease or discover new ones.
As ropeway manufacturers, we have precisely the product that makes this possible.
And even in times like these, we do not stand still and we never stop thinking
ahead. So that we can continue to be a reliable partner for our customers. We
have learned how to handle distance – whether it’s working from home and away
from the offi ce or across continents. Our employees have demonstrated a great
deal of fl exibility and problem-solving expertise, enabling them to tackle tasks
equally well from a distance.
We are grateful for the trust of our customers and for the dedication of our workforce.
Mutual understanding and assurance in these diffi cult times make us strong.
2021 has already begun. For the new year we wish everyone first and foremost
excellent health. We hope that this pandemic will come to an end and that people
will once again be able to move freely, travel and value what the world has to offer.
27
Digitalization in manufacturing
The latest development step in D-Line production benefi ts
employees, customers and ropeway passengers.
Thomas Pichler
István Szalai
Executive Directors, Doppelmayr Holding SE

4 Facts & Figures
Surface lift gets around a problem
When we think about winter sports, the first
thing that comes to mind is often a chairlift or
a gondola. Many of us, however, learned to
ski with the help of the “little brother” – the
surface lift. Thanks to the fact that it is narrow,
particularly flexible, cost-effective and also
suitable for smaller ski resorts, the surface
lift continues to enjoy unabated popularity to
this day.
One example of just how versatile surface lifts
can be is the new ski lift Cuolm da Vi in the
Disentis ski area. In order make optimal use of
the sunny Alpine pasture for winter sports and
avoid a diffi cult hollow, a lift installation incorporating
a curve was developed. The solution
turned out to be a special angle tower confi guration,
which allows a 45-degree bend.
Australia: 1
North America: 12
Asia: 17
Europe: 360
18
Norway
18
Italy
21
Germany
23
Czech Republic
1-SL Cuolm da Vi | Disentis (CHE)
Bergbahnen Disentis AG
670 m 190 m 894 PPH
3.2 m/s 45°
104
Austria
Surface lifts from
Doppelmayr/Garaventa
worldwide (since 2001):
390
62
France
40
Switzerland
Garaventa chooses solar power
Area covered by
modules: approx.
5,400m²
2,122
solar power modules
620,000 kWh
electricity/year*
Garaventa can use approx.
420,000 kWh
electricity itself.
This is approx. 35% of its
total consumption.
The roofs of the Garaventa subsidiary in Goldau
have been equipped with solar energy modules
since the end of 2020. This enables the company
to cover part of its energy consumption in
a sustainable way, using the power of the sun.
As well as being good for the environment, that
helps to cut the costs of electricity.
Garaventa has signed a 25-year solar power
purchase agreement with Solarenergie Arth AG,
who is responsible for the investment costs
as well as operation and maintenance of the
solar installation.
* Equivalent of the power consumption of 120 households
(5,200 kWh electricity/year is the average household
consumption in Switzerland)

Facts & Figures
5
Positive 2019/20 business year – signs of industry-wide
downturn due to Covid-19 pandemic
In the last fi scal, the Doppelmayr Group posted
sales revenues of 872 million euros. Although
no major project – such as the urban ropeway
in La Paz – was completed during the year, this
is nonetheless the second-highest result in
company history. The current situation is, however,
mixed despite the positive business year.
In the next fiscal, Doppelmayr has to expect a
30-per-cent slump in sales due to the Covid-19
pandemic. In the ropeway sector, the company’s
biggest source of revenue, 80 per cent of
projects are directly linked to tourism – the
branch of the economy which has taken the
hardest hit from the crisis. New contracts in
Austria and invitations to bid for Central and
South America nonetheless provide hope and
assurance for the future.
One symbol of this assurance is apprentice
training. In fall 2020, 36 youngsters began their
apprenticeships at Doppelmayr in Wolfurt –
an all-time record. In three years’ time, these
budding ropeway experts will qualify for trades
in the areas of steel construction, electrical
engineering, mechatronics, machining engineering
and mechanical engineering. This
Figures for 2019/20 business year:
Asia
Latin America
14%
CIS,
CEE
2%
5%
15%
Rest of World
872
million euros
Sales revenues
17%
USA, Canada
24%
23%
takes the number of apprentices employed by
the Doppelmayr Group worldwide to 124.
Austria,
Germany
Switzerland,
France,
Italy
Headcount worldwide
3,403
Total apprentices
124
New apprentices in 2020
36
Further Infos
can be found at:
More room for LTW Intralogistics
LTW Intralogistics GmbH, which is part of
the Doppelmayr Group, has a new building
under construction in Wolfurt. Work got off
the ground in August 2020. An ultramodern
building will be created with offi ces equipped
to the highest standard, recreation rooms,
an underground parking garage and a workshop
as well as a cutting-edge high-bay
warehouse. Completion is scheduled for the
end of 2021.
Total floor space
of new premises 5,000 m²,
1,500 m² footprint
Initially, 50
top-grade
workplaces
Use of newly
developed
graphical user
interface
High-bay
warehouse with
1,700 storage
spaces
Fully automated
stacker crane with
associated conveyor
technology
© Andreas Stickel – Architektur und Projektleitung GmbH & Co KG

Stepping into
autonomous mobility
Doppelmayr/Garaventa introduces AURO – Autonomous Ropeway Operation.
AURO ropeways bring passengers safely and reliably to their destinations in
tourist regions or cities – with unmanned operations and cutting-edge digital
network technology. This concept is pointing the way for the future of
rope-propelled mobility.
The Schneider family are looking forward
to a great day’s skiing. As winter sports
enthusiasts, they are keen to get to the
mountain by the fastest route with the new lift –
the ski trail beckons. Boarding is very straightforward;
everyone knows exactly where to go.
The cabins transit slowly through the station, so
even the children can board comfortably and
safely with their winter sports equipment. The
door closes and it’s off to the slopes for skiing
fun. It’s actually all the same as usual. The only
thing that occurs to the young family as they
leave the station is that they haven’t seen anyone
from the lift company. What they didn’t notice:
The entire station is equipped with a host of
“hidden” technology.
Safe and reliable
AURO ropeways from Doppelmayr/Garaventa
operate with unmanned stations. They are
equipped with intelligent integrated technology
and impress with the highest safety levels.
Cameras and sensors ensure smooth processes
and monitor the installation – particularly
cabin loading and unloading. The system
independently identifi es situations that deviate
from “normal operation”. If, for instance, a
passenger’s ski boot becomes caught in the
cabin door, the system reacts immediately and
the installation automatically shuts down. It
is restarted by a ropeway operative who has
an overview of operations from the Ropeway
Operation Center (ROC). The perfect synergy
of human and cutting-edge technology results
in high availability of the ropeway.
The concept harbors huge potential. “The level
of automation with this system will progressively
increase. That will open up interesting oper-

ating concepts, particularly for installations
that operate for many hours a day,” says Gerd
Dür, technical project manager for AURO at
Doppelmayr/Garaventa.
Doppelmayr/Garaventa already has experience
with unmanned ropeway operations. Two
gondola lifts in Val Thorens (FRA) provide
passenger service without station operatives.
This concept has a proven track record. AURO
installations are a new generation of autonomous
ropeways. Optimized features include
the entire technology, the operating and ride
comfort plus the design, which is inspired by
the D-Line. The first AURO ropeway went into
operation in Zermatt (CHE) in December 2020
(more on this project on page 13).
AURO on the mountain and in the city
AURO ropeways provide huge benefits not
only in tourist regions but also in cities, where
they are seamlessly integrated into the transport
infrastructure – thanks to their barrier-free
access, reliability, and efficiency in operation
and maintenance. Because growing urbanization
calls for visionary transport solutions. This
is where the AURO concept can provide a host
of answers.
Pioneering innovations are the hallmark of a
successful enterprise. Innovations that provide
the right answers to what moves people. One
example is autonomous operation. This is an
area where Doppelmayr/Garaventa is thinking
ahead and introducing a revolutionary concept.
Autonomous ropeways are pointing the way for
the future of rope-propelled mobility. They bring
passengers safely and reliably to their destinations
in tourist regions or in the urban environment.

Technology & Innovation
9
AURO –
the ropeway
goes solo
AURO ropeways incorporate a series of
technical components and digital features
that enable unmanned operation.
A
n AURO ropeway is a D-Line. It has all
the components that are the hallmark
of a D-Line generation ropeway from
Doppelmayr/Garaventa: grips, sheave assemblies,
stations, bullwheels, cabins, etc. What
distinguishes it from a “conventional” D-Line
is the AURO equipment for operations with
unmanned stations. The first AURO ropeways
are detachable gondola lifts. However, the goal
is to transfer this concept to other ropeway
systems also.
What is needed for unmanned ropeway operation?
How much technology is necessary
for safe, reliable operation – and to ensure the
perfect interaction between human and ropeway?
Alongside the required technical components
on the installation, the ride on an AURO
ropeway has to be as enjoyable and comfortable
as possible – exactly as passengers have
come to expect from Doppelmayr/Garaventa
ropeways. The key AURO elements are outlined
below.

Barrier-free access
On AURO ropeways, a large number of measures
are implemented for passengers with impaired
mobility so that everyone can use the installation
with ease. Examples include marked areas
designated to accommodate wheelchair users.
Cabin stabilizing rails and gap-free cabin step
geometry make boarding and disembarking very
straightforward. In addition, passengers can
contact the ropeway operative in the ROC – for
example, to request a slower transit speed.
Cabin stabilization
Stabilizing rails ensure an absolutely
stable position of the cabins as they
transit through the station. This minimizes
longitudinal swing and vertical
movements of the cabins and enables
safe boarding and disembarkation.
Cabins
The spacious OMEGA V
cabins offer plenty of legroom.
Sports equipment
is transported inside the
cabin with the TWISTIN
system.
Platform gate with shutdown function
The platform gate with shutdown function is
located at the beginning of the loading and/
or unloading area and prevents people from
entering unauthorized zones. If the swing gate
is activated by a person or by an object (e.g.
ski) protruding out of the cabin, the ropeway is
automatically shut down.
Presence recognition in pit
with shutdown function
The presence recognition system in the pit
with shutdown function monitors the carrier
pit in the loading and unloading area. If the
system detects the presence of a person or
object (e.g. ski pole, glove) in this area, the
ropeway is automatically shut down.
Cabin step
The geometry of the cabin
step is designed to match
the contour of the platform
in order to minimize the
gap between platform
and step.

CCTV system in
the stations
The loading and unloading
area, the door closing area,
the pit and the zone for
incoming cabins are monitored
with cameras. The
images are transmitted to
the ROC.
Information banner
Relevant information (max. number
of passengers per cabin; automated,
remotely monitored ropeway; SOS
symbol; wheelchair user symbol)
is displayed on an information
banner near the ropeway in the
loading and unloading areas.
Ropeway Operation
Center (ROC)
An AURO ropeway is operated from a central
point, the Ropeway Operation Center (ROC).
This does not have to be located immediately
next to the ropeway. On the installation in
Zermatt, the intermediate station is used as
the ROC. From here, the ropeway operative
has a perfect overview. Troubleshooting
can be performed remotely. An ROC can be
used not only for several stations but also for
several ropeway installations.
Platform gate with
warning function
Emergency stop button and intercom
system for passengers
Both platform gates are equipped with an
emergency stop button and an intercom system
on the passenger-facing side. This enables
an immediate shutdown of the ropeway by a
passenger as well as communication with the
ROC, should this be necessary.
The platform gate with warning
function is located at the end of
the loading and/or unloading area
and prevents people from entering
the cabin door closing area. An
acoustic and optical warning is
also generated in the ROC or control
room but there is no automatic
shutdown of the ropeway.
Outline detection with
shutdown function
The outline detection system recognizes
an object (e.g. ski pole)
protruding out of a carrier after the
door closing operation. The ropeway
is shut down once the outline
detection system is activated.

12 Interview
Winter sports experience
taken to a new level
WIR spoke with Markus Hasler, CEO of Zermatt Bergbahnen AG
WIR. Despite the crisis, Zermatt Bergbahnen
AG is making large investments for the
region and its guests. How has the company
equipped itself for this year’s winter season?
Markus Hasler: In terms of the operating
company, nothing has really changed much in
the preparations for the winter season in comparison
with previous years. Needless to say,
we have implemented all the protection measures
required at cantonal and federal level,
and are therefore able to ensure the safety of
our guests and employees. Back in the summer,
the decision was already taken that we
would still provide all our offers, lifts and ski
trails in the 2020/21 winter season, and deliver
a high-quality product for our guests as in previous
years. Unless the authorities decide to
the contrary, the entire winter sports offer will
be available in Zermatt without restriction.
WIR. The Kumme gondola lift is Switzerland’s
first autonomous ropeway. What are
your expectations with regard to this system?
Markus Hasler: We expect this lift to set
new benchmarks in terms of operation and
passenger safety. The remote control of the entire
installation will not only make day-to-day
operations easier but also guarantee the safety
of lift users thanks to the combination of human
and technology. We also hope that the new
Kumme gondola lift with this pioneering new
technology will be seen as a flagship project
beyond the Zermatt destination and will act as
a driver for technical advance. In addition, we
have high expectations from the perspective of
our guests. The new Kumme gondola lift will
seamlessly integrate into the list of ultramodern
and top-quality lift installations belonging to
Zermatt Bergbahnen and ensure that our winter
guests have a very convenient and rapid means
of getting back to the top of the Rothorn with no
waiting times. We are convinced that the
Kumme gondola lift will bring added value in
every respect for Zermatt Bergbahnen, for our
guests and for the entire destination.
WIR. Doppelmayr/Garaventa was awarded
the contract for the construction of this innovative
ropeway installation. What was the deciding
factor and how would you describe the
collaboration with the ropeway manufacturer?
WIR. The Kumme lift suffered an unforeseeable
fate with the avalanche in January
2018. What is the significance of the new gondola
lift for the ski resort?
Markus Hasler: The new Kumme gondola
lift is of huge importance for the winter sports
resort. The Kumme lift and the associated wide
and long ski trails have always been extremely
popular. The destruction of the Kumme lift
was a bitter blow, but we made a virtue of necessity
and got the project for a new lift off the
ground without delay. With the two sections
between Tufternkehr and Rothorn, the Kumme
gondola lift will not only be more modern and
efficient than the previous chairlift but also
longer, and, as from this season, winter sports
enthusiasts can even get back to Rothorn
from Tufternkehr quickly, comfortably and
easily. The new gondola lift and the associated
extensive snowmaking system means a huge
upgrade for the northern section of the ski
area around the Rothorn and will further enhance
the top-class winter sports experience
for our guests.
Markus Hasler: During the project engineering
phase, it quickly emerged that it
would have to be a gondola lift. The deciding
factors here were first and foremost passenger
comfort, the cutting-edge technology
plus an optimized alignment with fewer towers
and therefore less impact on nature and
the landscape. As far as the decision on the
manufacturer was concerned, the overall
package was right. It was only after the contract
award that we were presented with the
option of making this project the first autonomous
ropeway in Switzerland. In spite of the
additional costs, we decided to take advantage
of the possibilities that the technology
and digitalization had to offer. The completion
of an installation of this size in the time
frame of May through November can only
succeed on the basis of close cooperation
between all the parties involved. Doppelmayr/
Garaventa delivered a great achievement with
the planning, construction, transport logistics
and installation.
WIR. Many thanks for the interview.

WORLD
PREMIERE
World premiere for AURO
10-MGD AURO 2 Tuftern–Tufterchumma–Unterrothorn | Zermatt (CHE)
Zermatt Bergbahnen AG
3,192 m 965 m 1,500 PPH 6.0 m/s 5.8 min 56 10-passenger cabins 12/2020 D-Line
The first AURO ropeway has gone into
service in Zermatt.
December 19, 2020, was a very special day.
Zermatt Bergbahnen and all the companies
involved with the construction were delighted
to see the opening of the first AURO ropeway.
They are all proud of the successful completion
of this unique and visionary ropeway project.
The new 10-passenger Kumme gondola lift
replaces a triple chairlift. The lift runs from
Tufternkehr via the intermediate station in
Wyss Gufer to Unterrothorn and boasts plenty
of special features and technical highlights.
Both the bottom and top stations are unmanned.
The Ropeway Operation Center
(ROC) is located in the intermediate station.
From here, one ropeway operative has an
overview of the complete installation at all
times via CCTV in the stations. Most fault elimination
can be performed from this point. If
necessary, another ropeway operative can be
rapidly deployed.
Approval is required for operation without
station personnel from the Swiss Federal Office
of Transport. Representatives from this
offi ce inspected the safety of the unmanned
ropeways from Doppelmayr/Garaventa in the
French resort Val Thorens and gave the green
light for the Kumme gondola lift. The long track
record of successful and safe operation in
France was a decisive factor in their decision.
Comfortable and barrier-free
Information banners above the station platforms
indicate, among other things, autonomous
operation. Platform barriers ensure clarity
in the loading and unloading areas, which
are readily accessible and barrier-free. The
geometry of the cabin steps on the OMEGA V
carriers is designed to perfectly match platform
height. The cabins are equipped with the
TWISTIN system for the simple and convenient
transport of skis inside the cabin. From the spacious
interior, passengers enjoy the stunning
views of the surrounding mountain landscape.
Thanks to the new gondola lift and the installation
of new snowmaking equipment, Zermatt
Bergbahnen is looking forward to a massive
upgrade of the entire winter sports resort in
terms of transport and ski trail quality.
We’re extremely pleased to have implemented
this unique ropeway project with
Doppelmayr/Garaventa. The Kumme gondola
lift impressively highlights the possibilities
that technology and digitalization have to offer
nowadays. Markus Hasler, CEO, Zermatt
Bergbahnen AG

14
International Projects
With panoramic views and Wi-Fi
up to the Hörndl
8-MGD Zwölferhorn Gondola Lift | St. Gilgen am Wolfgangsee, Salzburg (AUT)
Zwölferhorn-Seilbahn Ges.m.b.H
2,747 m 909 m 655 PPH 5.0 m/s 10.5 min 28 cabins 10/2020 D-Line
The iconic Zwölferhorn lift was a familiar
feature of the town of St. Gilgen in Salzburg
for over six decades. Since October 2020, a
new 8-passenger D-Line gondola lift from
Doppelmayr/Garaventa has brought passengers
young and old up to the local mountain.
The Zwölferhorn, which is known locally as
the “Hörndl”, is a popular destination for
day-trippers and an important driver of tourism
for the region. Located directly on the
shores of Lake Wolfgang in the Salzkammergut,
it attracts large numbers of visitors in
winter and summer with its unique panorama
at an elevation of 1,500 m. For 62 years, a
colorful 4-passenger gondola up to the
Zwölferhorn graced the townscape of St. Gilgen.
When the concession expired at the end of
The Zwölferhorn gondola is an ultra-modern
lift offering the huge added value of barrierfree
access. Another of our priorities was to
make the Zwölferhörndl
even more appealing for
families. Klaus Markat,
Managing Director,
Zwölferhorn-Seilbahn
Ges.m.b.H
2019, the vintage installation ceased operation.
It was not long before the new lift was
completed. After a construction period of just
seven months, the detachable 8-passenger
gondola from Doppelmayr/Garaventa went into
service at the end of October 2020.
Barrier-free and versatile
The 28 OMEGA IV cabins in the traditional red
and yellow of the Zwölferhorn lift offer passengers
plenty of space and comfort. The new lift
is fitted with panorama glazing and Wi-Fi as
well as being barrier-free throughout. This
makes it a highlight for all guests, young or
old, athletic or leisurely, with baby strollers,
wheelchairs or sports equipment – everybody’s
needs were considered when developing the
new installation.
The new Zwölferhorn lift is of great significance
for St. Gilgen. I gave my word to build
a new ropeway here and I’m delighted that
we have now been able
to see it go into service.
Mario Stedile-Foradori,
Principal Shareholder,
Zwölferhorn Seilbahn
Ges.m.b.H
Unique in design and technology
The special feature of ropeways is their uniqueness,
and the Zwölferhorn lift is no exception.
The D-Line R3 roof was used on the bottom
station for the fi rst time. It blends in very discreetly
with the architecture of the building. The
Zwölferhorn ropeway covers an inclined length
of 2,747 m and has eight towers. Tower 1 is
directly connected to the station building and is
exceptional for its very fl at angle. Tower 3 rises
up to an impressive height of 56 meters and
features a lattice construction.
Check out
the video here:

International Projects
15
Riding high on India’s first
Doppelmayr gondola lift
8-MGD Girnar Ropeway | Mount Girnar, Gujarat (IND)
Usha Breco Limited
2,320 m 898 m 800 PPH 6.0 m/s 7.43 min 25 cabins 10/2020 D-Line
A new gondola lift in India is a milestone
not only for its citizens, tourists and pilgrims,
but also for the Doppelmayr/Garaventa team.
Around two million pilgrims and tourists from
the entire world visit the sacred Mount Girnar
every year. The popular 1,000-meter mountain
is a popular place for people of many different
faiths. At the summit, visitors offer their
prayers at the many temples, including the
Jain, the Ambaji, the Guru-Gorakhnath and
the Dattatreya, to name but a few.
In the past, it was not possible for everyone to
visit the temples as the climb was very strenuous
and too difficult for most, with 5,500 steps
up to Mount Girnar. The path leads through the
wildlife sanctuary and takes three to four
hours. With the new ropeway, the trip in one of
the comfortable cabins lasts just seven to
eight minutes. In particular, seniors, mobilityimpaired
visitors or physically less able people
as well as children are delighted with the
new means of transport they can now use to
visit Mount Girnar. “This project will provide a
massive boost for local tourism as tourists
and pilgrims who were previously unable to
climb the mountain can now fi nally fulfi ll their
wishes thanks to the new ropeway,” says
Apurv Jhawar, managing director of Usha
Breco Limited. The ride on the Girnar ropeway
also offers breathtaking panoramic views of
the surrounding wildlife sanctuary, which is
home to the Asiatic lion.
Teamwork as recipe for success
Difficult terrain is characteristic for Mount
Girnar. Material transport and organizing the
logistics for the top station were a huge challenge.
All the obstacles were successfully
mastered thanks to great teamwork. For the
first time ever in India, Usha Breco Limited
transported external loads with a helicopter
to bring materials up to the top of the mountain.
The project was delayed by almost four
months due to Covid-19 and the associated
travel restrictions. The team from Usha Breco
Limited were able to continue the work on
site in close collaboration and with remote
assistance from Doppelmayr. This was decisive
in order to make up for lost time and
complete the ropeway installation. India’s
first Doppelmayr gondola lift was officially inaugurated
by Prime Minister Narendra Modi
on October 24, 2020.
The Girnar ropeway is a project that has
been eagerly awaited for two decades. This
dream has now fi nally come true. I would
especially like to thank the Government of
Gujarat (India), who extended their
full-fl edged support to Usha
Breco to complete this
project together with
Doppelmayr/Garaventa.
Apurv Jhawar, Managing
Director, Usha Breco Ltd.

16 International Projects
Larger – heavier – broader
LTW Intralogistics resolves a tricky challenge
involving the storage of large stock
items with a fully automated high-bay warehouse
along with an efficient stacker crane.
An industrial firm in Austria approached the
LTW team with a very special request: They
needed a fully automated high-bay warehouse
to make the storage of their goods more
efficient. And they wanted direct access to
every single article. In addition, the stored
goods required a maturing time under climatecontrolled
conditions and an enormous amount
of space. The goods to be stored are up to
31 m long and weigh up to 13,500 kg.
Know-how called for
The most experienced LTW engineers were
therefore confronted with the task of developing
a solution with unprecedented dimensions. In
order to be able to try out the idea in practice,
LTW built an 80 m long and 5 m wide test setup
in collaboration with the customer. The LTW
team collected and evaluated the findings
from using an area of about 400 m². The areas
of statics and automation engineering were
among the specific challenges. LTW's great
commitment paid off – as a full-range supplier,
the team succeeded in gaining the edge over
the competition. A unique solution was the
result of intensive planning, project engineering
and testing.
New dimensions
LTW erected the first stacker crane with a
push/pull device for this size of goods. It is
composed of two stacker crane frames and
carries a three-part lifting carriage with a total
width of 31 meters. Including the payload
of 13.5 tons, the total weight of the stacker
crane is 80 tons. The project was completed
in 18 months. The high-bay warehouse started
operations at the beginning of 2020. The 31 m
long goods are placed longitudinally in singledepth
storage occupying about 600 slots.
Excellent collaboration
The installation and construction work was
completed with great professionalism and the
project management ran perfectly. This exceptional
project has enabled LTW to develop its
product portfolio and equip itself with novel
technology for large projects in the future.
Check out the gigantic
high-bay solution here:

Australia’s only alpine gondola
8-MGD Merritts Gondola | Thredbo, New South Wales (AUS)
Kosciuszko Thredbo Pty Ltd.
1,361 m 299 m 2,000 PPH 5.0 m/s 6.0 min 50 8-passenger cabins 06/2020
With the Merritts gondola, Doppelmayr
brings a new level of comfort, innovation and
efficiency to Australia.
Thredbo is Australia’s premier alpine resort
and has been voted Australia’s Best Ski Resort
in the World Ski Awards for three consecutive
years. On Saturday, June 22, 2020, a brandnew
gondola lift that will further enhance this
position was officially launched. The Merritts
gondola replaces the Merritts double chairlift
and quadruples capacity. It is Australia’s only
alpine gondola and represents the culmination
of two years of planning and development,
delivering a new crucial inter-mountain
link. It offers easier access for village guests
of all abilities to the Friday Flat and Cruiser
area. Its mid-station provides fast turnaround
access for intermediate and advanced skiers
and snowboarders.
Stuart Diver, general manager of Thredbo,
said: “The launch of the gondola is a huge
event for Thredbo and the entire community
who have worked so hard to make this happen.
The completion of this phase of our development
plan will enhance the customer experience
and continue to ensure we remain Australia’s
premier resort.”
Meeting environmental responsibility
Thredbo’s new gondola is driven by a massive
slow-turning motor – the Doppelmayr Direct
Drive. It is extremely quiet, low-maintenance
and very energy-efficient. The uptake of this
innovative technology is one more element in
Thredbo’s commitment to sustainability and
the environment. “We care deeply about our
responsibility of operating in a unique natural
environment, which is why being Australia’s
first ski resort to be powered exclusively by
clean, renewable energy was also an important
milestone,” says Stuart Diver.
Take a look at how
the project came together:
Caring for the environment
is a team effort
Thredbo and Doppelmayr Australia are
proud partners of the initiative Keep It Cool.
During the course of their recent partner
planting day, 1,000 trees were planted.
They brought their kids and family members
to also participate and had a great day for
an important cause.
Find out more about Keep It Cool:
facebook.com/keepitcoolaus
It is a remarkable engineering achievement
thanks to the tenacity and depth of knowledge
and expertise at Doppelmayr,
the world’s leading manufacturer
of ski lifts. Stuart Diver,
General Manager,
Kosciuszko Thredbo Pty Ltd.

18 International Projects
Quiet and comfortable ride
to the ski resort
10-MGD Vercland | Samoëns, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes (FRA)
Grand Massif Domaines Skiables (GMDS)
2,200 m 803 m 2,400 PPH 7.0 m/s 7.0 min 54 10-passenger cabins 12/2020 D-Line
The new 10-passenger Vercland gondola
lift brings guests from the idyllic village to the
winter sports resort Samoëns in just seven
minutes.
The 4-passenger Saix gondola lift with its
egg-shaped cabins, which was so characteristic
of the mountain village of Vercland in the
French Alps, has been replaced by a modern
D-Line installation after 47 years of service.
The new gondola lift in the Grand Massif ski
region brings guests to the ski slopes at an
impressively high speed of 7 m/s. Up to ten
passengers enjoy a pleasant trip in each of
the comfortable OMEGA V cabins with panorama
windows. With all these new features,
capacity has been almost doubled in comparison
with the predecessor lift – to up to
2,400 passengers an hour. The spacious
boarding area for the winter and summer lift
provides convenient, barrier-free access for
all passengers.
Quiet, discreet and efficient
For the ropeway operator, Grand Massif
Domaines Skiables, not only greater wind stability
but also low-noise operation was a major
priority for the construction of the new Vercland
gondola as the bottom station lies in the heart
of the village, just a few meters from a group
of chalets. With the technical possibilities provided
by the new D-Line ropeway generation,
Doppelmayr/Garaventa was able to fulfill that
wish. Great importance was also attached to
energy efficiency and the conservation of resources.
The line illumination, which opens
up new options for events and night skiing, is
solar-powered.
The Vercland lift was implemented in just seven
months. The construction work began in May
2020 and by October the Doppelmayr team
had completed the installation, which meant
that the commissioning by the supervisory authority
was able to take place in November.
Right from the start, we were wowed by the
technical and individual possibilities of the
D-Line along with its design and comfort.
The professional collaboration and rapid
implementation showed us
that we chose the right partner
in Doppelmayr France.
Frédéric Marion, CEO,
Grand Massif Domaines
Skiables

International Projects
19
Visionary investment in
a world-class chairlift
8-CLD-B Kapellen Lift | Steinplatte–Winklmoosalm, Tyrol (AUT)
Steinplatte Aufschließungsges.m.b.H & CO.KG
1,411 m 273 m 3,200 PPH 5.0 m/s 5.3 min 70 8-seater chairs 12/2020 D-Line
The operating company Bergbahnen Steinplatte
has opted for a cutting-edge 8-seater
D-Line chairlift from Doppelmayr/Garaventa
and is safeguarding jobs in uncertain times.
The Steinplatte ski resort in the Tyrol-Salzburg-
Bavaria border triangle is a popular destination
for families and is constantly investing in top
quality standards. After 25 years of service
from the “old” Kapellen lift, a 6-seater chairlift,
Bergbahnen Steinplatte has now opted for a
new 8-seater chairlift offering top comfort. For
the operating company, this investment is
sending out a clear message, particularly in
times of the Covid-19 pandemic, about safeguarding
jobs within the company and strengthening
the economy.
locked as the chairs leave the bottom station
and are only opened again in the top station.
The chairs with seat heating and bubbles carry
passengers in comfort to their destination in
wind and weather. The RPD Nexo system for
rope position monitoring ensures maximum
safety and is also totally reliable even in the
most adverse weather conditions. The top station
accommodates an underground carrier
parking facility with a basement conveyor to
carry the 70 chairs into the parking system.
Our ski resort has always attached great
importance to the highest quality standards.
The new Kapellen lift offers optimal comfort
and safety for children
and adults alike, and
enables more fun on the
ski slopes.
Andreas Brandtner,
Managing Director,
Bergbahnen Steinplatte
D-Line as all-rounder
The new Kappellen lift opened in December
2020 belongs to the D-Line ropeway generation
and offers winter sports enthusiasts every
conceivable comfort on the 5-minute journey
to the Kapellensee lake. The use of a loading
conveyor with elevating platform makes boarding
easy for children and adults alike. The lift
can carry up to 3,200 passengers an hour and
features the auto-lock system. This ensures
that the restraining bars are automatically

20 International Projects
Easy peasy mountain access
6-CLD-B Oberdorf–Freienalp | Wildhaus, Canton St. Gallen (CHE)
Bergbahnen Wildhaus AG
1,289 m 218 m 2,000 PPH 5.0 m/s 5.0 min 54 6-seater chairs 10/2020 D-Line
Wildhaus Bergbahnen in Canton St. Gallen
has put a D-Line chairlift into service that is
equipped with all the components of a familyfriendly
lift.
The operating company Wildhaus Bergbahnen
has jointly completed a new ropeway with
Doppelmayr/Garaventa, which offers everything
the heart desires in terms of family friendliness
and sets new benchmarks in this regard. The
development of this lift was focused above all on
easy and convenient boarding for families with
children and safe uphill carriage of the youngest
passengers. The 6-seater chairlift Oberdorf–
Freienalp went into service in October 2020.
these features have the advantage that only
one adult is needed to accompany fi ve children
on one chair.
Well-conceived eye-catcher
The ride up to the Freienalp on the new
6-seater chairlift is very comfortable in many
respects. The extra-wide individual seats with
elegant logo provide ample space; the lightweight
bubbles are easily positioned and protect
passengers in cold and damp weather. Great
importance was also attached to contemporary
architecture and a stylish design of the top and
bottom stations. The well-conceived and intel-
ligent layout of the D-Line ensures ropeway
operatives not only plenty of room but also enhanced
maintenance friendliness.
Child safety and family friendliness were our
top priority for the new chairlift – it provides
the perfect fit for our overall
concept and puts us in the
top league of family-friendly
ski resorts. Urs Gantenbein,
CEO, Bergbahnen
Wildhaus AG
Safe ride to the top
The D-Line offers convenient boarding with a
loading conveyor and elevating platform. In the
case of a small child, the elevating platform is
automatically raised. This means that the child
can reach the seat without assistance. The
D-Line chairs also have individual footrests,
which makes it virtually impossible for young
passengers to slip beneath the restraining bar.
The auto-lock system monitors the correct
closing and automatic locking of the restraining
bar in the station. The bar remains closed
during the trip and automatically opens again
at the right time in the top station. For snow
sports classes and families in particular, all
Seven enthusiastic office
employees from Garaventa
joined in when it came to the
work of splicing the rope on
the new 6-seater chairlift.

New Salvista gondola boasts
technical innovations
10-MGD Salvista Gondola | Hopfgarten-Itter, Tyrol (AUT)
Bergbahnen Hohe Salve Hopfgarten-Itter-Kelchsau GesmbH & Co. KG
2,781 m 894 m 2,090 PPH 6.0 m/s 10.1 min 70 10-passenger cabins 12/2020 D-Line
The new 10-passenger gondola lift at
SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental thrills guests
with great comfort plus special features.
The Salvista gondola is a perfect example of
the ongoing development refl ected in the
D-Line ropeway generation with its many innovations.
The ultramodern D-Line lift has the
very latest technical features such as the RPD
Nexo system for rope position monitoring. The
ropeway control system Doppelmayr Connect
is also incorporated on this installation and can
be used for direct regulation of the seat heating
in the comfortable OMEGA V cabins. As a
world fi rst, the gondola lift is equipped with a
new combination sheave assembly. With this
innovative solution, the position of the sheaves
at the end of the sheave assembly has been
optimized to make the passage of the cabins
over the tower even smoother than before and
therefore signifi cantly enhance ride comfort.
In addition, the Salvista gondola is the first
two-section lift belonging to the D-Line generation
that is designed with just one instead of
two bullwheels in the intermediate station. The
bullwheel has two grooves – one for the rope
for the lower section and one for the rope for
the upper section. The benefits of this solution:
It was possible to design the intermediate
station with more compact dimensions and
reduce the length of the station. This also means
lower maintenance as there are fewer components.
Another factor is that the installation
only needs one drive, which is also housed in
the intermediate station – the gearless, lownoise
Doppelmayr Direct Drive was the perfect
choice here.
Upgrade for the ski area
The new Salvista lift replaces a 4-passenger
gondola built in 1989. The bottom station remains
at its present location in Itter. New offers
have been created here in terms of infrastructure
for mountain sports enthusiasts, with a
sports shop, ski hire and ski storage facility.
The intermediate station is located at the site
of the old top station. The new top station will
link up with the existing ski trail network of
SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental thanks to the
creation of a new ski run.
A new snowmaking reservoir has been created
just below the top station to improve snowmaking
coverage. The associated technical
center will include garaging facilities for the
snow grooming vehicles. The Salvista gondola
and the new ski trails plus the envisaged summer
operations are set to boost the attractiveness
of SkiWelt for visitors.
We are proud of the fact that we were able
to deliver the Salvista gondola project in
Itter with technical innovations on time and
on budget in collaboration with Doppelmayr
and all the other firms involved. This was
only possible thanks to the excellent teamwork
and professionalism
of all parties.
Friedl Eberl, Technical
Director, Bergbahnen
Hohe Salve Hopfgarten-
Itter-Kelchsau

22 International Projects
Everything’s new on Timberline Mountain
6-CLD Lift 1 | Canaan Valley, West Virginia (USA)
Timberline Mountain
1,235 m 296 m 3,200 PPH 5.0 m/s 4.4 min 78 12/2020
of the past thanks to the new lift. The second
installation is a fixed-grip quad chairlift that
provides access to the mid-mountain area.
From here, guests have access to attractive
downhill runs. The short trip time of less than
four minutes makes this lift particularly useful
for repeat uphill rides.
Winter guests can therefore look forward to
a completely modernized ski resort offering
a top guest experience.
In the family ski area in West Virginia
(USA), significant investments have been
made to take the resort’s attractiveness and
guest experience to a whole new level. Two
new lifts from Doppelmayr/Garaventa form a
major part of this initiative.
less experienced skiers. With a capacity of
3,200 passengers an hour, the lift also offers
highly efficient transport. Winter sports enthusiasts
can reach the slopes in just 4.4 minutes.
Waiting times and long uphill trips are a thing
We decided in favor of Doppelmayr because
they provide top-quality and innovative
ropeway solutions. In addition, Doppelmayr’s
excellent reputation for outstanding project
management was decisive in enabling us to
maintain our tight time schedule. With their
reliability and comfort, the two new chairlifts
that represent the centerpiece of this
investment project are set to have a lasting
positive impact on the future of our ski
resort. Tom Price, Director of Operations,
Timberline Mountain
The two new ropeways are the centerpiece of
a 14-million-dollar investment project on the
1,300 m Timberline Mountain in West Virginia.
The ski area had closed down after the aging
lifts and buildings ceased to draw in many
guests. It has now been bought and completely
revitalized by the investor Perfect North Slopes,
a ski resort in Indiana. In addition to the two
new lifts, the resort’s entire amenities have
been modernized. New snow guns and snowgrooming
vehicles have been purchased to
ensure pristine ski slopes. Investments have
also been made in the building infrastructure,
including new lodges, restaurants and shops.
4-CLF Lift 2 | Canaan Valley, West Virginia (USA)
Timberline Mountain
516 m 107 m 2,375 PPH 2.3 m/s 3.8 min 76 12/2020
Fast, comfortable access to the ski trails
It has always been the philosophy of Perfect
North Slopes to address the needs of skiers
and snowboarders of all levels, from beginners
to professionals. The same goes for Timberline
Mountain. The new detachable 6-seater chairlift
brings guests in comfort to the highest peak
in the ski area. The detachable system makes
boarding particularly easy for beginners and

International Projects
23
Where there’s a will, there’s a way
6-CLD Sugar Bowl Express | Queenstown, Otago (NZL)
NZSki Ltd.
1,066 m 257.5 m 3,000 PPH 5.0 m/s 4.0 min 66 08/2020
The Sugar Bowl Express is a great example
of what you can achieve with a great team,
commitment, know-how and state-of-the-art
ropeway technology.
Since last winter, skiers at The Remarkables
ski area in New Zealand have experienced
the latest ropeway technology when taking a
ride on the new Sugar Bowl Express. Guests
can now access terrain parks in just four minutes,
directly from the base building. The
Doppelmayr D-line high-speed 6-seater chairlift
is the fi rst of its kind in New Zealand bringing
a new generation of chairlift design and technology
to the country’s ski industry.
“The Sugar Bowl Express lift has been a few
years coming,” ski area manager Ross Lawrence
said. “Since the first concept until today,
we have experienced a couple of delays but
I’m excited skiers and boarders can now enjoy
a faster ride and explore the 2.5 km of new
trails we’ve developed up there.”
Challenge accepted
The Covid-19 pandemic caused unforeseen
challenges for the teams. Doppelmayr engineers
needed to be creative when it came
to the commissioning of the chairlift. Due to
the coronavirus travel restrictions at the time,
it was not possible to get specialists from
Wolfurt (AUT) to New Zealand. In very close
collaboration with the local Doppelmayr team,
the technicians were able to remotely execute
the commissioning using digital tools with
augmented reality features. The successful
completion of this unique procedure was only
possible thanks to the commitment of the
team in Wolfurt, the professional work of the
crew in New Zealand and the given conditions
of this particular ropeway.
The splicing team was facing the same challenge.
But since splicing a rope is something
only few people are able to do, the New Zealand
authorities allowed a Swiss splicing expert to
enter the country. He quarantined for two weeks
before splicing the rope of the Sugar Bowl express.
With the support of a local crew of 20,
they had the job done in only a day.
Take a look at what was
created at The Remarkables:
This development is another step in our
plans to keep up with
demand and growth, and
a key milestone in our ongoing
commitment to offer
world-class facilities for our
guests. Paul Anderson,
CEO, NZSki Ltd.

24 News from Around the World
Ropeway news from South Korea
South Korea has plenty to offer its visitors
from around the world. With varied natural
scenery, historic sites, adventure parks and
ski slopes, there is a wide spectrum of attractions
to choose from. Doppelmayr/Garaventa
is currently working on several ropeway installations
throughout the country, which will offer
passengers a fast and comfortable ride to their
leisure-time destinations. See below a selection
of the current projects in South Korea.
Samaksan Mountain Gondola
A new 8-passenger gondola lift near the city
of Chuncheon will soon be taking guests to
the popular Samaksan Mountain. This is an
exceptional project in an exceptional location
as the ropeway will cross a reservoir. The
view along the 3,619 m route will be spectacular.
One of the challenges that Doppelmayr/
Garaventa resolved during implementation of
the Samaksan Mountain Gondola was the
alignment. One of the towers stands in the
center of the lake. Thanks to the many years
of experience and previous projects such as
Busan Air Cruise in South Korea, this special
configuration is no problem for the ropeway
experts. The project investor Daemyung Corporation
is already a well-known name due to
the Vivaldi Park ski resort and will now be providing
guests with a year-round experience on
Samaksan Mountain.
Uldolmok Cable Car
A brand-new 10-passenger gondola is currently
under construction at the historic site of
Uldolmok. Over a length of around 900 meters,
it will cross the ocean at the place which
was the scene of a famous naval battle over
400 years ago. Admiral Yi Sun-sin’s 13 naval
ships fought off 133 Japanese warships in the
Battle of Myeongryang. This victory meant the
end of the Imjin War and saved the Korean
nation. Daelim Construction Co. is honoring
this site with a sustainable and efficient transport
solution: a gondola lift of the latest D-Line
ropeway generation including the Doppelmayr
Connect control system. While the 26 tenpassenger
cabins will provide an attractive
ride across the ocean, those with glass floors
will ensure a very special perspective.
city will soon have this experience – along with
ropeway technology from the world market
leader. The adventure park is scheduled for
completion in June 2021.
Busan Luge Lift 1+2
The New Zealand tourism operator Skyline
Enterprises is currently developing a second
luge site in South Korea. The new Skyline Luge
Busan is to be created as part of an extensive
leisure complex with theme park, hotels and
shopping facilities. There will be four tracks,
each approximately 900 m long. Two fixedgrip
Doppelmayr chairlifts will bring around
2,600 visitors an hour to the start of the luge
tracks. This will be the highest capacity of all
Skyline’s Luge sites throughout the world. The
chairs will not only carry four passengers but
also the luge carts for the spectacular downhill
runs. The luge is a unique attraction and extremely
popular. South Korea’s second-largest
Partnership spanning decades
Shin Chang International Inc. has represented
Doppelmayr/Garaventa in the Korean market
for four decades. This highly successful partnership
is reflected in over 80 ropeway installations
in Korea. Common to both companies
are mutual trust, the same innovative spirit and
a passion for ropeways.

News from Around the World
25
Two D-Lines for the “Hawaii of China”
Two new D-Line gondola lifts on the island
of Hainan are set to provide breathtaking ride
experiences.
Hainan Province in the People’s Republic of
China lies in the South China Sea and consists
of various islands. The largest is also called
Hainan and is known as the “Hawaii of China”
due to its many idyllic beaches. The island
has become one of the country’s most popular
tourist destinations and draws visitors from
around the globe.
Two new 8-passenger gondola lifts from
Doppelmayr/Garaventa are currently under
construction at this location. In the heart of the
Yanoda rain forest, the two ultramodern D-Line
ropeways will carry tourists to some special
places – one lift will access a popular visitor
center, the other the world-famous Wa Ai Lu
glass viewing platform. Some of the OMEGA V
cabins on these installations will be fitted with
glass floors to allow a spectacular view of the
rain forest below. The opening of both ropeways
is planned for the end of 2021.
Ropeway for the Floriade:
a trip into the future
Visitors to Floriade Expo 2022 will glide
above the exhibition grounds at a height
of 35 meters in a Doppelmayr/Garaventa
ropeway.
A huge exhibition is currently being created in
Almere (NL) for the internationally renowned
horticultural show Floriade Expo 2022. In line
with the theme of “Growing Green Cities”, a ropeway
installation from Doppelmayr/Garaventa
was chosen as a sustainable means of transport
for visitors. It will link the northern and
southern parts of the park over a length of
roughly 850 meters, cross the A6 highway
and provide a high level of comfort for passengers
as well as incorporating cutting-edge
ropeway technology.
Completion by mid-2021
Construction work on the new 10-passenger
gondola lift got underway in November 2020.
Completion is planned for mid-2021. This
means Floriade visitors and anyone else who
is interested will be able to gain an impression
of a ride on the gondola lift ahead of the exhibition
and gain a bird’s eye view of progress
at the site.
Further info on the
Floriade Expo 2022:

5,600 square meters
for large projects and
custom solutions
Site expansion in Lana: After a 12-month construction period, Doppelmayr Italia
can now enjoy new production shops and office space.
S
ince the end of August 2020, the
Italian subsidiary in sunny South
Tyrol has boasted a spanking new
5,600-square-meter production facility. While
continual modernizations had been carried out
at the site in the past – such as the recently
purchased FPT Dinomax milling machine – the
time had come to invest in a new and expanded
company building as Doppelmayr Italia’s
old production shop dating from the 1970s
no longer met modern requirements.
The new three-level manufacturing premises
provide plenty of room for the production,
preassembly and inspection work on
ropeway components for the site and its
100-strong workforce. The development of
custom solutions for ropeways destined for
both national and international projects continues
as usual in the new air-conditioned
manufacturing shops.
Comfortable and spacious
The new building also accommodates a service
area, logistics and comfortable offices.
Up to twelve Doppelmayr Italia employees take
care of production orders. A large conference
room equipped with the latest technology is
available to staff for meetings and seminars as
well as spacious changing rooms, ultramodern
restroom facilities and an underground
parking garage.
Fit for the future
Doppelmayr Italia considers itself to be well
equipped for the future with the new building.
In the next few years, four Funifor installations
are to be produced at the new facility, which
are destined for the Schilthorn in Switzerland.
As well as being well known for its panoramic
views of the Bernese Alps (Switzerland), this
peak is famous as the backdrop to the James
Bond movie “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”
made at the end of the 1960s. Since its
first ropeway in 1912, Doppelmayr Italia has
achieved a host of technologically innovative
milestones and manufactured almost all of the
large installations in Italy and the Alps. The
expertise of the Doppelmayr/Garaventa Group
and consequently the Italian subsidiary has
also been employed on major international
projects such as the Cable Liner at Moscow
Airport or London Luton 2021.
Time-lapse video of
the site expansion can
be viewed here:

Doppelmayr/Garaventa Group
27
Digitally assisted
precision manufacturing
Building ropeways is a very exciting process. From the creation of the individual
components through to the finished installation, both analog and digital working methods
are used. The D-Line production line at the assembly department in Wolfurt shows how
Doppelmayr/Garaventa implements digital innovations.
D
oppelmayr/Garaventa launched the
D-Line in 2015. This was a new ropeway
generation involving a complete
rethink during its development phase: a new
level of comfort, new technology, new features,
new design, new possibilities. An important
building block in this development was
production because the fact that a ride on a
D-Line is so comfortable, smooth and quiet,
and that the installation is maintenancefriendly
and highly individualizable is all down
to manufacturing. Only the sum total of precision
components manufactured in precision
processes can give rise to an efficient and reliable
ropeway.
For this reason, Doppelmayr/Garaventa is constantly
investing in its machinery infrastructure
and the equipment of its production facilities.
This means cutting-edge manufacturing plants
as well as the successive introduction of integrated
digital production processes, all in line
with the SMART Ropeway strategy.
Efficient manufacturing for unique solutions
Today, every ropeway is customer-specific.
This has inspired Doppelmayr/Garaventa to
develop the production process. The introduction
of digital tools leads to the closer integration
of departments and processes, and
in turn to higher value creation and a lightening
of the daily workload. With a view to leveraging
digitalization to improve processes even further,
Doppelmayr/Garaventa implemented the next
digital development step in the D-Line production
line: a modern plant that enables employees at
the Doppelmayr factory in Wolfurt (AUT) to complete
their value creation processes efficiently,
quickly and without error. The assembly groups
automatically pass through different stations
at regular intervals. Each and every manual task
is documented; tools and materials are automatically
ordered and provisioned. This means
that everything is always to hand, while delays
and errors are virtually excluded. The tasks to
be performed are visualized for the operatives
on a large monitor at the work stations.
Systematically integrated
Today, the work instructions for the D-Line
production line are automatically generated
directly from the CAD and system data created
by the ropeway engineers in the technical
departments. This ensures maximum efficiency
and precision. On average, 150,000 code lines
are uniquely generated for each individual
ropeway station on a fully automatic basis.
These contain the values for electronic screwdrivers,
tools and jigs as well as the detailed
work steps for operatives.
Facts and figures on the D-Line
production line
From loose components to a finished
ropeway station in one shift
1 element per hour, 1 ropeway station
per shift in optimal quality
Approx. 15,000 automatically generated
code lines per element, almost
150,000 code lines per installation
8-15 operatives per shift
700 m² pure production area
This digitalization step is used not only to perform
work activities but also for analysis and
quality assurance. Almost 2,500 code lines
per station are fed back into the system as the
result of the manufacturing process. This is
used as the database for documentation as well
as for proactive process optimization. In future,
artificial intelligence technologies and methods
as well as learning systems will be able to
provide ever more intensive assistance.
Human factor
A process is only ever as good as the people
who implement it. To ensure that they are
not merely manufacturing anonymous station
components, a new system of visualization
provides a charming option. At the top left
of the screen at each work station, where the
work steps are shown, the name of the ropeway
installation and the flag of the country of
destination for the current element are always
displayed. The operatives now know where the
result of their efforts is set to provide enjoyment
for ropeway passengers in the future.

28 Customer Support
Customer support
deployment at
Lake Constance
In Bregenz, on the shores of the picturesque Lake Constance (AUT), Doppelmayr’s
customer support department recently carried out a very special kind of repair job.
The successful replacement of the piston rod of the eleven-meter-long counterweight
cylinder demanded the full commitment, experience and passion of the team.
For many ropeway installations, the fall is
the time when inspection and repairs are
carried out. This was also the case for
the Pfänder aerial tramway in Bregenz (AUT).
Throughout November, the ropeway crew on
the popular tramway up to the local mountain
in Bregenz were involved with the scheduled
service and inspection work. Among other
things this year, the team had to tackle a very
special job, which they performed jointly with
the experts from Doppelmayr.
Heritage protection meets ropeway technology
In order to repair damage to the piston rod and
replace the seals, the counterweight cylinder
on the installation had to be dismantled. This
was a customer support job that is no everyday
occurrence, even for the experienced ropeway
specialists from Doppelmayr. The tensioning
system on the Pfänder tram is exceptional due
During our shutdown in November 2020,
we jointly replaced the piston rod of the
counterweight cylinder in
just three days with help
from Doppelmayr. Everyone
did a great job. Berthold
Martan, Operations Manager,
Pfänder Tramway
to its dimensions and the fact that it is embedded
in the bottom terminal building, which is a
protected historical building as its basic structure
is the original dating back to 1927. The four
track ropes on the twin-track aerial tramway are
tensioned with 70 tons per rope. The return
bullwheel for the cabin haul rope is also hydraulically
tensioned. Two track rope cylinders,
one haul rope cylinder and the counterweight
cylinder are hydraulically connected and fit
precisely into the narrow building. The required
counterweight was upgraded to 140 tons during
a rebuild performed in 1994.
Lift-off for the cylinder
The counterweight cylinder removed in this
case is roughly eleven meters in length, weighs
fi ve tons and is installed vertically in the terminal
building. The gigantic part was heaved through
the roof hatch of the bottom terminal with a mobile
crane, loaded onto a truck trailer with great
precision and taken to the Doppelmayr plant
With such a huge repair, we were glad to
be able to rely on Doppelmayr,
who are not far away from us.
Josef Gasser, Deputy
Operations Manager,
Pfänder Tramway

Customer Support
29
A glimpse of the technology
behind the Pfänder tramway
can be found here:
A ropeway installation like the Pfänder tram
with such a special tensioning system is not
something you see every day.
We were very well prepared for
our deployment so everything
went smoothly. Alexander
Rath, Hydraulics Service
Engineer, Doppelmayr
in Wolfurt. In collaboration with the cylinder
manufacturer, the counterweight cylinder was
dismantled, the damaged piston rod removed
and the new rod with a special Enduroq coating
installed. As part of this process, all the seals
were replaced in order to ensure problem-free
service for the years to come.
Preparation is everything
This job was preceded by meticulous planning.
The new piston rod was produced specially for
the Pfänder tram and a lead time of around nine
weeks had to be taken into account for project
management. Preparation of the necessary
tools and components is all part of standard
procedure for Doppelmayr customer support
and, as usual, was carried out with great care.
A specialist came from Holland to assist with
the piston rod replacement.
Opportunity for learning
The apprentices from the in-house assembly
department took advantage of the chance
to take a look at the work performed at the
Doppelmayr plant. This gave them a unique
opportunity to look over the shoulders of the
specialists and to learn more about the hydraulic
system of a ropeway and the special tensioning
system of this particular reversible aerial
tramway. They were also on site in Bregenz the
next day when the cylinder was installed and
were given exclusive insights into the work and
experience of the Pfänder tram team.
Unique panorama
The Pfänder tram takes day-trippers to the top of
the local mountain in Bregenz in just 6 minutes –
to what is probably the most stunning viewpoint
of the Lake Constance region at 1,064 m. The
large cabin for 80 passengers offers unique vistas
during the trip. The tram operates all year round
and is an attraction for international guests.
The collaboration with the Pfänder tramway
was once again excellent. You
really have to praise the whole
team. Reinhard Wolf, Project
Manager, Technical Customer
Support, Doppelmayr

30 In Brief
You are the future
Apprenticeships have enjoyed a high
priority at Doppelmayr for many decades.
In order to give the training opportunities
with the ropeway manufacturer another
platform and even greater presence,
apprentices have been pictured on
Doppelmayr customer service vehicles
since summer 2020. “You are the future”
is written in white against a blue background.
Apprentices from the different
trades are shown who are currently going training at Doppelmayr.
under-
Work experience days will be taking place
again in January, February and March,
when youngsters can get a taste of working life
in companies to help them choose their future
career paths. Doppelmayr is already looking
forward to showing school students what it
takes to build ropeway installations.
Further info on apprenticeships can be
found here: www.doppelmayr.com/lehre
Build your own ski resort
“Experience technology and spread the fascination”,
that’s what the team from HR Innoways
GmbH are passionate about. The young
start-up based in Vienna launched the Winter
Resort Simulator onto the market in 2019. This
incorporates ropeways and their technical features
exclusively from Doppelmayr/Garaventa.
The sophisticated simulation game is not just
for entertainment purposes as the 3D simula-
tion can be used as a training tool for ropeways
rather like flight simulators.
The Winter Resort Simulator Season 2 emulates
the activities at an Alpine resort comprehensively
and very realistically. An entire ski
area can be built up, complete with ropeways
to be operated and ski slopes to be groomed.
The six-person team with an average age of
23 began developing Season 2 in spring 2020
and published it jointly with Aerosoft GmbH in
November. The new version also contains a
Funitel – based on the Silvrettabahn in Ischgl
– with detailed ropeway technology including
drive motors, V-belts, precisely reproduced
parking with liftable rotating switch rail and
a lifelike simulation of the Doppelmayr control
system PSS 3000.
Features of the Winter Resort Simulator – Season 2:
• Funitel – based on the Silvrettabahn in Ischgl
• Doppelmayr 3S with CWA ATRIA cabins
• 5 different D-Line chair and gondola lifts
• Detailed ropeway control systems: PSS 3000
and Doppelmayr Connect
• Precisely reproduced parking including parking
control system and liftable rotating switch rail
• Freight cabins and maintenance carrier for
transport/deliveries

In Brief
31
Teaching & studying in South Tyrol
All information on the
course can be found here
In the fall, students on the ropeway engineering
course at the Vorarlberg & Schloss
Hofen University of Applied Sciences went on
their first week-long field trip to the region of
South Tyrol. Together with the president of the
South Tyrol Ropeway Association, Dr. Helmut
Satori, a varied program of events as well as
lectures was organized for the budding ropeway
experts. This also included educational
visits, such as the trip to see TechnoAlpin, the
leading manufacturer of snowmaking equipment.
The field trip was rounded off with a
unique chance for the group to take a look
behind the scenes in the Carezza ski area,
where the new D-Line gondola lift King Laurin
was under construction.
Since 2013, employees from companies in the
ropeway sector and associated fields have
been able to take a degree course lasting 4 to
5 semesters at FH Vorarlberg to become ropeway
experts – this is the only academic course
with optional master’s qualification available in
the German-speaking region.
Garaventa has accompanied me
since my first time on skis
First, he surpassed all expectations
among the juniors, now Swiss ski racer
Marco Odermatt also shows huge potential
among the pros. For two years, Garaventa
has been a premium sponsor of the downto-earth
23-year-old, who kicked off the Ski
World Cup season in Sölden in October
2020 by taking silver in the giant slalom.
The company has found the ideal ambassador
for ropeways in Odermatt. He hails
from Central Switzerland, which is also
home to the site in Goldau. Both he and
Garaventa are extremely committed when
it comes to achieving their goals. Lifts from
Doppelmayr/Garaventa have carried the
man from Nidwald up the mountain countless
times since his first attempts at skiing.
“Garaventa has accompanied me up the
slopes since my first time on skis. It was
on the Klewenalp that I learned to ski and,
during my time at the sports high school, I
took a lot of lift rides up to the Titlis. That
enabled me to hone my skiing techniques,”
says Odermatt. He is very enthusiastic
about his sponsor’s products and adds:
“It’s a really cool feeling when your sponsor
brings you to the World Cup start line. It
means a piece of home is always with you.”
Legend
Imprint
Inclined length
Vertical rise
Capacity
Speed
Trip time
Carriers
Proprietor, editor and publisher: Doppelmayr Seilbahnen
GmbH, Postfach 20, Konrad-Doppelmayr-Straße 1, 6922
Wolfurt, Austria, dm@doppelmayr.com, doppelmayr.com;
text and editing: ikp Vorarlberg GmbH, ikp.at, Doppelmayr;
graphics and layout: KONZETT BRENNDÖRFER, agenturkb.com;
photos: Doppelmayr; printing: Thurnher, Rankweil; editorial
policy pursuant to §25 Media Act: up-to-date information
for customers, partners and employees of the Doppelmayr/
Garaventa Group; publication frequency: the magazine
is published three times a year. Reprinting only permitted
with statement of source and explicit written authority;
status: January 2021; errors and omissions excepted; In the
interests of better readability, we dispense with the use of
gender-specific wording in the magazine; General Terms
and Conditions apply.
doppelmayr.com
Opened
D-Line
Max. inclination
Max. gradient
Drive
Angle tower

You are
the future.
Apprenticeship at Doppelmayr/Garaventa
Doppelmayr/Garaventa will take you high up in the
world – a career with the global market leader in
ropeway construction is waiting for you.
ENG
Apply now at
doppelmayr.com/lehre
garaventa.com/lehre

Eiger Express
The highlight of the V-Cableway brings passengers from the Grindelwald
Grund terminal to the Eiger Glacier in just 15 minutes. The Eiger Express is
a tricable gondola lift in a class of its own. Innovation, efficiency and comfort
rolled into one – and all made possible by the experts from the Doppelmayr/
Garaventa Group.

2 | Eiger Express
© jungfrau.ch
V-Cableway:
A once-in-a-generation
mobility project
Grindelwald in Berner Oberland (Switzerland) is
home to one of the world’s most innovative infrastructure
solutions. The terminal for the ropeway
link known as the V-Cableway is multimodal,
barrier-free, convenient and visionary. It is an
ultramodern mobility hub for the next generations,
which has been accomplished jointly by the operating
company Jungfraubahnen and Doppelmayr/
Garaventa. Jungfraubahnen is following in the
tradition of groundbreaking achievements that
dates back to the construction of the Jungfrau
Railway during the period 1896–1912.
From the new terminal in Grindelwald, a 10-passenger gondola lift with two
sections goes to the Männlichen and a 3S lift known as the Eiger Express
leads to the Eiger Glacier – with spectacular views and significantly
shorter trip times into the bargain.
The bottom station is entirely dedicated to comfort and disabled-friendly
design. With the new link to the public transport network, the modern terminal
acts as a hub not only for the two ropeways but also for the regional
train, the Berner Oberland railway and the local bus. On arrival, visitors
experience the atmosphere of an airport, with shops at various levels,
restaurants, a sports shop and ski storage facilities. Barrier-free access
ensuring mobility for everyone is provided throughout. People arriving
by car can park in the multi-story car park with space for 1,000 vehicles.
The tour buses bringing visitors for the Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe can
stop right next to the escalator that takes passengers directly to platform
level. Short distances for all visitors were the top priority for the planners.
© jungfrau.ch
© jungfrau.ch

© jungfrau.ch
Eiger Express | 3
» The V-Cableway is a masterstroke for
everyone involved. In the medium and long
term, it will safeguard the successful future
of tourism in the entire Jungfrau region as
a year-round destination. «
Urs Kessler
CEO, Jungfraubahnen AG
Interview with Urs Kessler
A lot of passion and commitment were invested in the
Eiger Express project. What is the significance of the
new ropeway for you personally and also for the Jungfrau
region?
THE JOURNEY FROM GRINDELWALD GRUND TO
THE EIGER GLACIER IS A THROUGH TRIP TAKING
ONLY 15 MINUTES.
Urs Kessler: It was a unique experience to work with the team
on such a once-in-a-generation project. My motto was always
where there’s a will, there’s a way. Where there’s no will, people
tend to look for excuses. I am extremely excited as the project
turned out far better than I ever would have expected. The
V-Cableway project puts us and the Jungfrau region way out in
front and makes us unimaginably competitive.
Grindelwald is a very popular destination for international
tourists. What can guests look forward to on future visits?
Guests heading for the ski trails or the world-famous Jungfraujoch save
themselves a huge amount of time with the Eiger Express. The journey
from Grindelwald Grund to the Eiger Glacier is a through trip taking only
15 minutes. At the top station, the last leg up to the Top of Europe is on
the Jungfraubahn, the over 100-year-old rack-and-pinion railway that
takes the spectacular tunnel through the Eiger and the Mönch.
The opening of the Eiger Express marks the completion of the ropeway
link project. In addition to its function as a rapid feeder system, this innovative
tricable gondola lift boasts a host of technical innovations and
provides a highly efficient replacement for freight transport to the Eiger
Glacier. The challenges that arose along the way for this major project
were skillfully mastered by everyone involved with in-depth know-how,
professional teamwork and a great passion for ropeways.
Urs Kessler: Grindelwald and the Jungfrau region are a popular
travel destination all year round. In future, our guests will of
course benefi t from the time saving thanks to the V-Cableway
project. The combination of train ride and Eiger Express will
enhance the overall experience. Guests will be able to get to
the Jungfraujoch or to the hiking and skiing area faster and
more conveniently by train and bus and also by car. The large
windows of the ATRIA cabins offer unique views of the worldfamous
Eiger North Face.
The new ropeway will also operate in the winter for skiers
and snowboarders. What new benefits will the Eiger Express
bring in terms of fun on the slopes?
Urs Kessler: The modern 26-passenger cabins are fi tted with
heated seats and windows, and Wi-Fi is also guaranteed along
the entire line. Passengers can take their skis and snowboards
with them in the spacious cabins. In addition, guests can now
get to the Eiger Glacier in 15 minutes. Thanks to the time saving
and the trail connections, that means even more skiing and
snowboarding excitement.
In terms of the technology, the Eiger Express is a new
generation of tricable ropeway. What were the functions
and features you attached particular importance to for
the implementation and why?
Urs Kessler: We wanted to exceed our customers’ expectations
with added value. That includes not only heated windows
and Wi-Fi but also design. We wanted to see the best and most
attractive cabin in the world against the backdrop of the famous
Eiger North Face with plenty of glass. As an exclusive
feature, we offer a VIP cabin with the Platinum Lounge. It was
our defi nite intention to set ourselves apart with the design. You
never get a second chance to make a fi rst impression!
© jungfrau.ch

4 | Eiger Express
A project of superlatives
For Doppelmayr/Garaventa, the construction of
the Eiger Express was a very special task. There
were some intriguing customer requirements to
meet on the one hand and tricky challenges to
be resolved here and there. A ropeway project of
this type and dimension is no everyday job and
demands a high degree of innovative spirit and
problem-solving expertise.
The experts from Garaventa assisted the Jungfraubahnen operating
company throughout the various stages of the V-Cableway project, right
from the development of the first project proposals. The official groundbreaking
ceremony for the V-Cableway was celebrated in Grindelwald
Grund on July 3, 2018. The gondola lift to the Männlichen was opened
back in December 2019 and, since December 2020, the Eiger Express
has also been in service for visitors to the Jungfrau region.
Rope transport with new dimensions
The task of transporting the track ropes for the new tricable gondola
lift Grindelwald Grund – Eiger Glacier put all previous challenges in the
shade. The dimensions of each of the four track ropes surpass anything
known to date for a Swiss aerial ropeway. Four heavy transports were
performed from August through November 2019 to bring the track ropes
from Romanshorn to Grindelwald. In each case, a spectacular 132 tons
of rope was maneuvered along narrow, winding mountain roads and
over bridges that were only designed to take 72 tons. The solution after
three years of planning involved distributing the net load between three
trucks, carrying out complex modifications of the vehicles and investing
a lot of time and effort. For the first time, one track rope was distributed
between three trucks using special bobbins. The transports took place
at night along closed roads and the ropes had to be wound back and
© jungfrau.ch
TRACK ROPE
6,940 meters in length
132 tons in weight
COMPLETE
TRUCK CONVOY
65 meters in length
212 tons in weight
1,580 PS
Project milestones
Check out
the video here:
2013
May 31, 2018
July 3, 2018 Dec 13, 2019 Dec 5, 2020
Contract award
Building permission
for the V-Cableway
Groundbreaking
ceremony in
Grindelwald Grund
Opening of the
10-passenger gondola
lift Grindelwald–
Männlichen
Public operation of
the Eiger Express
3S lift

Eiger Express | 5
forth across several bridges in order to reduce the load on the trucks
when crossing the bridges.
Unique rope installation
Installing the rope on the Eiger Express was equally exceptional and
called for precise preparations. The specialists from Garaventa invested
a lot of know-how and time to ensure that everything went according
to plan.
Protective scaffolds were erected at every road and rail crossing. Support
towers had to be installed to maintain the height of the thin, flexible
auxiliary ropes in the rope spans. The team fitted a large number of rope
guide sheaves on the seven towers. In order to be able to pull the ropes
from the bobbin location into the rope pulling machine, a rope deflection
system was built specially for this project. Five rope-pulling machines
and seven winches were used for installing the rope. As several winches
had to be used simultaneously, operations had to be coordinated
to ensure they ran smoothly. The specialists from Garaventa headed
by chief fitters Ueli Schmid and Reto Sigrist successfully mastered the
complex rope installation. It took the team 9–13 days to install and align
one track rope. For the entire lift length of 6,480 meters, 188,000 meters
of auxiliary rope, track rope, Telecom cable and haul rope was installed.
The installation team used around 400 tons of tools for the job.
» As Garaventa project manager, it was a great
honor and a pleasure for me to work jointly with
Jungfraubahnen, the Grindelwald Männlichen
gondola lift and all the other partners on the planning
of this once-in-a-generation project. It was
only thanks to the fantastic teamwork of all parties
that we were able to deliver this complex project
on time in spite of a tight schedule. That makes
me proud. «
Raphael Reinle
Project Manager Sales,
Garaventa AG

6 | Eiger Express

Eiger Express | 7
We are 3S
A lot of thought went into the choice of the right
ropeway system when building the Eiger Express.
In order to meet the requirements in terms of
capacity, environment and comfort, the decision
was made in favor of a tricable gondola lift.
The 3S system combines all the benefits of a detachable gondola lift
with those of a reversible aerial tramway. The fact that these installations
have two track ropes means that large rope spans can be achieved with
a small number of towers while ensuring extremely high wind stability.
In the case of the Eiger Express, only seven towers were required over
a total length of 6,483 meters. The 3S technology is the only ropeway
system that harmoniously addresses the transport needs and the requirement
for minimal impact on the environment.
Top capacity
When planning and developing the Eiger Express, the Doppelmayr
engineers pushed the envelope of what is possible. The Eiger Express
is the heaviest ropeway installation ever built by Doppelmayr/Garaventa.
A nominal power of 1450 kW is used to set this solid installation in
motion. Passengers climb 1,385 vertical meters in just 15 minutes. The
drive is located in the top station. To achieve low noise generation,
sound-optimized bullwheels already proven on the D-Line have been
used on the Eiger Express. With a diameter of 5,400 millimeters, they
master the demands of the tricable ropeway. Another new development
for strongly reduced noise emissions is the hold-down sheaves on the
station shoes. These innovations bring ideal benefits in particular for
ropeway installations where integration into their environment requires
minimum noise.
Maintenance made easy
In the case of the new 3S station concept, the focus was placed on
maintenance friendliness. Readily accessible components and intuitive
control thanks to Doppelmayr Connect ensure straightforward and rapid
maintenance for ropeway operatives. Additional help is provided by the
newly developed maintenance carrier, which incorporates a lifting platform
so that parts in high locations can be easily reached. The platform
can be raised by up to five meters, enabling work on the tower saddle
or track rope supports to be carried out comfortably.

8 | Eiger Express
Technical Specifications
26-TGD Eiger Express
6,483 m
Inclined length
1,385 m
Vertical rise
2,228 PPHPD
Capacity
7
Towers
15 min
8.0 m/s
1
1
Trip time
Speed
VIP cabin
Maintenance
carrier
44
26
56 mm
58 mm
Cabins incl. 4 for
freight transport
Passengers
per cabin
Haul rope
diameter
Track rope
diameter
EIGER EXPRESS
© jungfrau.ch

Eiger Express | 9
Mechanics and cabin boast excellence
Visitors to the Eiger Express enjoy an entirely new ride experience in
the ATRIA cabins. The interior fi ttings are high-end and therefore require
a suitable power supply. This is provided by the newly developed carriage
wheel generator. During the trip, eight generators incorporated into
the 3S carriage wheels produce around 4 kW of electricity at a speed
of 8 m/s. Carriage and hanger have a black lacquer finish. The main
support of the hanger is elegantly integrated into the roof as if it was all
made of one piece.
Wish fulfilled
Jungfraubahnen is a company of innovative pioneers who came up
with exciting ideas calling for outstanding solutions from the ropeway
specialist. Doppelmayr/Garaventa was able to fulfi ll every wish with innovative
spirit and know-how. The result was a flagship project in the
industry, which impressively demonstrates the effi ciency and capabilities
of a ropeway.
» The Eiger Express once again highlights
the Doppelmayr/Garaventa spirit. The
collaboration with colleagues from different
companies within our Group was truly
inspiring and has produced a remarkable
product that points to the future for innovative
and efficient transport solutions. «
Peter Luger
3S System Manager,
Doppelmayr Seilbahnen GmbH

10 | Eiger Express
ATRIA – a perfect vision
of form and function
The Eiger Express features the very latest 3S cabin
from CWA – the ATRIA – which offers visitors a
ride experience that more than lives up to the
“Top of Europe” claim. The 26 seats are equipped
with permanent seat heating and two infotainment
monitors provide GPS-controlled information (for
example on climbing routes on the Eiger North
Face) as well as entertainment during the trip.
» For the Eiger Express, we have taken a
huge step forward with the ATRIA. Its fittings
impressively demonstrate what ride comfort
can offer in the future – on the mountain and
also in the city. «
A special highlight of the new CWA cabin is the panoramic glazing:
The transition from the windows to the cabin roof is seamless, opening
up an incomparable view of the Eiger North Face and the surrounding
landscape. The integrated window heating prevents fogging and icing
so that the view from the cabin is unhindered at all times. Sun protection
film on the cabin windows and heated seats help to create a comfortable
climate inside.
Marco Zangrando
Sales Manager,
CWA Constructions SA/Corp.

Eiger Express | 11
Cabin features
Indirect lighting
Public Wi-Fi
CCTV in the cabin
Panorama
windows
Selective PA and
intercom system
TWISTIN
ski rack system
Seat and window
heating
Cabin sound
system
Hopper windows
Electrically
operated doors
Sun protection film in
laminated safety glass
2 info screens
with GPS-controlled
information
26 ergonomically
shaped individual seats
Seat backrests with
embroidered logo
Flexibility for all applications
During the trip, skis are stowed in the TWISTIN ski rack system in front
of each seat. In the summer, the in-floor slots can be concealed with the
Quick Cover. Indirect interior lighting in the ceiling and underneath the
seats ensures a pleasant ambience during trips at dusk.
With these features, Doppelmayr/Garaventa raises the benchmark for
passenger comfort to a whole new level. The ATRIA's new functions
and fittings also make it predestined for use in the urban environment.
Integration with the ropeway control system offers mobility providers
entirely new possibilities.
VIPs in luck
The VIP cabin of the Eiger Express has the lucky number 888. The golden
cabin with exclusive furnishing leaves nothing to be desired. The
red carpet gives guests a VIP feel right from the start and indirect floor
lighting creates a cozy atmosphere. The ceiling depicting a starlit sky
with hundreds of light points, leather swivel chairs, also in red, and a
champagne bar with cooling system complete the luxurious trip for up
to eight VIP guests.

12 | Eiger Express
Doppelmayr Connect –
intelligent integration,
efficient control
Entirely in line with the SMART Ropeway concept,
digital networking technology features prominently
on the Eiger Express. The Doppelmayr Connect
control system enables the ropeway operative to
control the various systems on the installation –
also using a mobile device, if necessary.
The mix makes it possible
The Eiger Express has provision for different forms of transportation
and offers highly individual benefits for all of them. Passengers traveling
alone board as usual in a generously proportioned loading area as the
cabins slowly transit through the station. For groups wishing to visit the
Jungfraujoch, a cabin is stopped in the dedicated group boarding area.
This enables these passengers to conveniently board their own cabin
as a group. The carriers intended for freight transport run through the
station at a faster speed so that they can then be stopped at a defined
point for a specific time to enable the freight to be loaded.
This is made possible by ingenious processes that are executed by
the intelligent ropeway control system Doppelmayr Connect, which was
implemented by Frey AG Stans. For the Eiger Express, the basic control
functions were supplemented with additional new features, such as the
optimized boarding concepts for groups, VIP and individual guests as
well as the option for fully automated goods transport taking place during
passenger service along with the associated monitoring systems.
This allows the ropeway operative to run the entire ropeway, including
all additional functions, in a safe and straightforward way thanks to the

Eiger Express | 13
coherent, logically structured and intuitive control concept. In addition,
new functions were integrated, such as the use of a radio remote control.
This makes it possible to operate the ropeway for maintenance
purposes while outside the control room and also on the line. As a consequence,
ropeway downtime for maintenance can be further reduced.
Connected
On the Eiger Express, the cabin control system has been integrated into
the Doppelmayr Connect ropeway control system. All electrical options
for the ATRIA can therefore be operated from the ropeway control room
or remotely using a mobile tablet. This gives ropeway operatives a closer
connection with passengers.
When it came to the planning and implementation, the fact that companies
belonging to the Doppelmayr/Garaventa Group were involved was
a huge advantage – Frey AG Stans supplied the ropeway control system,
LTW the logistics system, Doppelmayr the mechanical equipment
and CWA the cabins. This facilitated coordination and made it possible
to create straightforward and technically meaningful interfaces between
the subsystems.
» The Eiger Express is a gigantic project that we
as a company group can take great pride in. The
professional coordination between all the parties
involved was a decisive success factor for an
integrated ropeway project of this kind. «
Marcel von Ah
Project Manager,
Frey AG Stans

14 | Eiger Express
Intralogistics –
connecting two worlds
With the Eiger Express, Doppelmayr/Garaventa delivered a unique new solution for the
combined transport of passengers and goods. For the first time ever on a ropeway,
the complete freight transport process takes place fully automatically during passenger
operations and is visible to the guests. This novel system meets the highest safety
standards and efficiency requirements on a whole new level.
© Jungfraubahnen AG

Eiger Express | 15
The required freight transport to the Eiger Glacier, e.g. groceries for
catering and merchandise for the souvenir shops, which was previously
performed by manually loading and unloading the rack-and-pinion railways,
is now entirely automated. Doppelmayr/Garaventa developed
this solution jointly with LTW Intralogistics. LTW is a member of the
Group and specializes in intralogistics solutions. The company has
experience in a wide range of sectors, from high-bay warehouses in
timber construction to deep-freeze warehouses for food products.
This know-how was combined with ropeway expertise to enable goods
transport during normal passenger operations on the Eiger Express.
The goods are delivered to the basement of the ropeway station and
loaded onto transport units specially designed for this purpose. After
the pick-up point, these are checked for maximum dimensions and
weighed. Up to two tons can be carried with this system. The conveyor
system brings the goods to a vertical conveyor, which then transports
them to the upper level. The loading robot – a new development from
Doppelmayr/Garaventa – then transfers the transport unit to the ropeway
cabin. The cabins intended for freight transport can also be used
for passenger service during normal operations. They have a shorter
central seat bench as this area is envisaged for the transport unit. These
special cabins are separately identified and stored in the ropeway control
system. If a cabin is reserved for freight transport by a ropeway
operative, passengers are automatically held back at the gate.
© Jungfraubahnen AG
» This project is totally unlike any other in every
respect. The conditions on the construction site
alone at 2,300 m, with no direct access and a
material ropeway for transporting the conveyor
system to its location, were new for us. Thanks
to our experience in the frozen storage sector, we
were able to score with a product that can even
withstand extreme conditions like icy winds and
temperatures as low as -20 °C. «
Lukas Fitz
Project Manager,
LTW Intralogistics GmbH
The cabin with closed doors runs faster past the passenger loading
area, stops at the loading point and the doors open. Intelligent safety
technology ensures that there are no persons present in the cabin to be
loaded before the goods are placed inside. The precision of the cabin
position at the loading point is +/- 10 mm. Loading and unloading are
fully automatic in the bottom and top stations.
The connection of these two worlds by integrating fully automatic passenger
and freight transport in one system, all from one source, opens
up new possibilities for transportation on the mountain and, in future,
also in cities.
For LTW, the freight transport on the Eiger Glacier goes
even further. From the Eiger Express, an LTW transport system
carries the goods along a 40 m long tunnel through
the mountain to the rack-and-pinion railway. There, the
goods are loaded onto a freight carriage equipped with an
interchangeable platform. The rack-and-pinion railway then
carries them to the Top of Europe. On arrival, another innovation
from LTW will await the goods as from spring 2021:
The interchangeable platform, complete with the freight it
carries, will then be taken from the carriage by an automatic
LTW loading robot and transported to the final unloading
point in the station basement.