Telangana Moves Closer to Dedicated Lift and Escalator Safety Law

Telangana Moves Closer to Dedicated Lift and Escalator Safety Law Telangana’s proposed lift, escalator and moving walks safety law has come under renewed focus after the Telangana High Court asked the state government to provide a clearer update on the progress and timeline of the draft legislation. A division bench comprising Chief Justice Aparesh Kumar Singh and Justice G.M. Mohiuddin was hearing a public interest litigation seeking faster action on a dedicated legal framework for elevator and escalator safety in the state. The matter involves key government authorities, including the Chief Secretary, the Principal Secretary of Municipal Administration and Urban Development, the Law Secretary and the Chief Electrical Inspector. Draft Bill Under Review The court reviewed the status of the proposed Telangana Lifts, Escalators and Moving Walks Bill, following an earlier direction issued on June 18. While the state government informed the court that work on the draft bill was underway, the bench noted that the affidavit did not clearly mention when the safety law or related regulations would be brought into force. The government also informed the court that the proposal would need to be placed before the state Cabinet for approval before moving further in the legislative process. The High Court observed that delays in bringing proper safety regulations for lifts and escalators could affect public safety. Public Safety Comes Into Focus The High Court observed that any delay in bringing proper safety regulations for lifts and escalators could affect public safety, especially in residential and commercial buildings where such systems are used daily. The court also noted that children and residents remain vulnerable when elevator and escalator systems are not governed by strong inspection and safety standards. At the same time, the bench clarified that it was mindful of the separation of powers and could not direct the legislature to pass a specific law. However, it emphasized that the government must treat the issue with seriousness and urgency. Next Hearing on July 15 The matter has now been adjourned to July 15, 2026, with the state government directed to file a fresh affidavit by the next hearing. The affidavit is expected to provide the current status of the draft bill and the steps taken for its further consideration. Why It Matters for the Elevator Industry For the elevator and escalator industry, this development is significant. A dedicated safety law can help create clearer responsibilities for installation, maintenance, inspection and compliance. It can also support better accountability across building owners, contractors, maintenance agencies and regulatory authorities. As urban development continues to expand across Telangana, especially in cities such as Hyderabad, stronger lift and escalator safety regulation can become an important part of modern building infrastructure. The proposed law, once advanced, could help improve public confidence, reduce safety risks and bring more structured oversight to vertical transportation systems in the state. ISEE Papers View The High Court’s intervention should be seen as a positive step toward stronger safety governance. A dedicated lift and escalator safety framework can help Telangana move closer to safer buildings, better inspections and more reliable vertical mobility for the public. ISEE Papers covers key developments from the elevator, escalator and vertical transportation industry. Disclaimer: This article is published for informational and editorial purposes only. Views expressed may not reflect those of ISEE Papers. We do not guarantee accuracy or completeness. For full details, please read our complete disclaimer here: ISEE Papers Website Disclaimer

Schindler India Launches TÜV SÜD-Certified Green Elevator Maintenance Contract

Industry News Schindler India Launches TÜV SÜD-Certified Green Elevator Maintenance Contract Schindler India has introduced the Schindler EcoLite Contract, described by the company as India’s first sustainable elevator maintenance contract certified to reduce carbon emissions by up to 35%. The new service combines real-time remote monitoring with smarter, data-led maintenance to lower the carbon footprint of elevator, escalator and moving-walkway servicing. According to Schindler India, the EcoLite Green Contract uses adaptive and preventive maintenance instead of a traditional fixed servicing approach. The company says this helps reduce unnecessary technician travel, improves maintenance planning and allows issues to be identified before they become major problems. The carbon reduction figure has been certified by TÜV SÜD, one of the global certification agencies. Connected Maintenance at the Core A key part of the offering is Schindler’s connected elevator technology. Through the Internet of Elevators and Escalators, connected units generate real-time data that can be accessed by Schindler’s technicians. This allows the service team to understand equipment condition before visiting a site, plan the right tools and spare parts in advance, and in some cases troubleshoot or maintain units remotely. Reducing Downtime and Service Emissions The company said the approach is designed to make maintenance more efficient, reliable and sustainable. By reducing repeat visits and enabling faster response, the contract aims to lower downtime while also supporting building owners who are looking to improve the sustainability profile of their properties. The launch also connects with Schindler’s wider sustainability direction. The company has stated a goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2040, while its climate transition plan identifies low-carbon service contracts as part of its broader decarbonisation efforts. Why It Matters for the Elevator Industry For India’s elevator and escalator industry, the EcoLite Green Contract reflects a wider shift in how maintenance is being positioned. Service is no longer only about uptime and safety, but also about data, predictive maintenance, energy efficiency and measurable environmental impact. As more commercial buildings, residential towers, transport hubs and mixed-use developments adopt sustainability targets, green maintenance models could become an important differentiator for building owners and facility managers. Schindler India’s launch signals that sustainability is now moving deeper into the lifecycle of vertical transportation systems, not just product design or installation. Source: Schindler India Disclaimer: This article is published for informational and editorial purposes only. Views expressed may not reflect those of ISEE Papers. We do not guarantee accuracy or completeness. For full details, please read our complete disclaimer here: ISEE Papers Website Disclaimer

Korea Lift Safety Institute Backs Two-Line Escalator Riding to Improve Safety and Crowd Movement

Escalator Safety News Korea Lift Safety Institute Backs Two-Line Escalator Riding to Improve Safety and Crowd Movement South Korea is reviving its two-line escalator riding campaign after 11 years, reopening a major public debate on safety, machine wear and transport efficiency in busy public spaces. South Korea is bringing back its two-line escalator riding campaign, a move backed by the Korea Lift Safety Institute and supported by experts who say the practice can help reduce accidents, limit uneven mechanical wear and improve crowd flow. The campaign returns after 11 years and comes at a time when the country is once again debating whether passengers should stand on one side of an escalator or use both sides. For decades, many commuters have followed the habit of standing on one side while leaving the other side open for people who want to walk. While this habit has often been seen as considerate, experts now say it creates a safety and efficiency problem. The concern is not only about how people move, but also about how escalators are designed to carry weight. The key message is simple: two-line riding can make escalators safer for passengers, healthier for machines and more efficient during crowded periods. A Policy That Has Changed Direction Before South Korea’s escalator policy has shifted several times over the years. Single-line riding was recommended in the late 1990s. The country returned to two-line riding in 2007, before the campaign was eventually scrapped in 2015. The latest revival is being described as a science-based decision rather than a simple etiquette campaign. Experts believe the change is necessary because the long-standing single-line habit has placed repeated stress on escalators and may have increased the risk of accidents. 46% Of 597 subway station fall incidents from 2020 to 2024 occurred on escalators, according to Seoul Metro. 95%+ Higher wear was found on right-side escalator components compared with the left side in a 2026 Korea Lift Safety Institute study. 30% Increase in carrying capacity was observed during a 2016 London Underground experiment at Holborn Station. Why Single-Line Riding Can Damage Escalators Mechanical engineers warn that escalators are precision machines designed to carry loads evenly across both sides. When most passengers stand on one side and the other side is used for walking, the machine experiences uneven loading. Kim Eui-soo, professor of mechanical engineering at Korea National University of Transportation, explained that continued single-line riding can cause one-sided wear of rollers and rails, along with unequal elongation between the left and right chains. Over time, these issues can increase the risk of serious mechanical failure. Another concern is dynamic load. When a person stands still, the load on the escalator is treated as a normal static load. But walking can raise the load to around three times that level, while running can increase it to nearly seven or eight times. This repeated impact can accelerate metal fatigue and place extra stress on the escalator system. Escalators are designed to move people safely, not to function as running tracks. Expert view highlighted in the report The Efficiency Debate Supporters of single-line riding often argue that keeping one side open helps people move faster. However, studies and crowd-flow experts suggest that this may not be true during busy periods. In practice, only about 25% of subway users walk on escalators. This means the standing side carries most passengers, while the walking side often remains underused. The result is a crowded standing lane and an inefficiently used walking lane. Michael Foo, a professor of mechanical engineering at the University of Maryland who studies crowd flow on escalators, noted that reserving one lane only for walkers creates a resource imbalance. Since the majority of passengers stand, using only one lane for them reduces the total movement capacity of the escalator. Single-Line Riding One side becomes crowded, the walking lane is underused and uneven load can increase mechanical stress on escalator parts. Two-Line Riding Both sides are used, weight is distributed more evenly and more people can move through the escalator during peak congestion. What Global Examples Show International examples support the idea that two-line riding can improve passenger movement in crowded systems. In 2016, an experiment at Holborn Station on the London Underground showed that asking passengers to stand on both sides increased carrying capacity by about 30% during the same time period. Taipei introduced two-line escalator riding in 2005 and is often cited as a successful example in Asia. In Japan, Saitama Prefecture introduced an ordinance in 2021 that reduced walking on escalators by 20%. However, because the rule did not include penalties, old behaviour gradually returned within a year. Researchers in Japan and China have also found that two-line riding becomes more beneficial as congestion increases. A 2020 statistical physics model by a Japanese research team and a 2018 simulation study by a Chinese group both reached similar conclusions. Experts Call for Flexible Rules Experts believe the success of South Korea’s campaign will depend on enforcement and practical design. Some have suggested that local ordinances with meaningful penalties may be needed if awareness campaigns alone do not change public behaviour. However, many also believe that a rigid one-size-fits-all rule may not be ideal. Instead, they recommend a conditional approach based on congestion levels, escalator length and real-time passenger flow. 1 Use two-line riding during peak congestion to increase carrying capacity and reduce bottlenecks. 2 Encourage passengers not to walk or run on escalators, especially in crowded stations. 3 Consider traffic light-style guidance that advises passengers based on real-time crowd conditions. 4 Support awareness campaigns with stronger local enforcement where needed. The Bigger Message South Korea’s renewed two-line escalator campaign is not only about changing commuter etiquette. It is about using safety data, engineering evidence and crowd-flow science to reduce accidents, protect equipment and move people more efficiently in public transport spaces.

Schindler Launches ReStore and ReNew Modernization Packages for Aging Hydraulic Elevators in the U.S.

Schindler Launches ReStore and ReNew Modernization Packages for Aging Hydraulic Elevators in the U.S. Morristown, New Jersey, May 2026: Schindler Elevator Corporation has introduced two new modernization packages, Schindler ReStore and Schindler ReNew, aimed at upgrading aging hydraulic elevator systems across the United States. The launch comes at a time when many older buildings are looking for faster, more practical ways to improve elevator performance, safety, reliability and code compliance without opting for a complete elevator replacement. Both packages are pre-engineered solutions designed to reduce the time required from order placement to completed modernization. The focus is on helping building owners replace outdated elevator controls with modern microprocessor-based technology and updated components. Schindler ReStore is positioned as the entry modernization package. It includes a new Schindler controller with softstarter, standard hall fixtures and car station, hoistway and machine room wiring, digital connectivity and an optional door operator upgrade. Schindler ReNew builds on the ReStore package by adding a submersible power unit with a hush kit noise suppressor. This makes it a more comprehensive option for properties looking to improve both performance and passenger experience. According to Schindler, the packages are designed to help building owners take a more proactive approach to elevator modernization. Instead of waiting for repeated breakdowns, parts obsolescence or rising maintenance costs, owners can plan upgrades in a more controlled and cost-efficient manner. Joe Bera, Senior Vice President of Modernization Sales at Schindler Elevator Corporation, said the new solutions are intended to improve reliability, reduce unexpected costs and give customers better control over planning and budgeting. The company’s modernization work is already present across several major facilities and transit environments in the U.S., including Miami International Airport. With ReStore and ReNew, Schindler is strengthening its modernization portfolio for the hydraulic elevator segment, a category that continues to represent a large installed base in low- and mid-rise buildings across the American market. The move also reflects a broader industry trend: elevator companies are increasingly focusing on modernization as buildings seek safer, more connected and more efficient vertical transportation systems without replacing existing equipment entirely. Disclaimer: This article is published for informational and editorial purposes only. Views expressed may not reflect those of ISEE Papers. We do not guarantee accuracy or completeness. For full details, please read our complete disclaimer here: ISEE Papers Website Disclaimer

Top Lift Companies in India by Revenue FY25 | ISEE Papers

Market Analysis | Vertical Transportation India’s Elevator Market: Foreign Revenue Leaders, Indian Installation Strength Four of India’s top five lift makers by FY25 revenue are foreign-owned. But the company leading by units installed is Indian. That difference reveals how layered India’s elevator market really is. By ISEE Papers Editorial Desk Vertical Transportation Industry FY25 Revenue Analysis 4 of India’s top 5 lift makers are foreign-owned. Finland. USA. Switzerland. Germany. The only Indian company in the top five is Johnson Lifts, a Chennai family business founded in 1963. ₹16,000 Cr Estimated size of India’s elevator market. ~85% Market concentration among just five companies. ₹14,232 Cr Combined FY25 revenue of the top five companies. India’s vertical transportation market is expanding with the country’s skyline. From metro stations and hospitals to malls, offices, airports, and residential towers, elevators are now central to how modern India moves. But behind this growth lies a striking market pattern. The highest revenue positions are largely held by global companies, while one of the strongest installation stories belongs to an Indian manufacturer. According to FY25 revenue data sourced from Tofler, CARE Ratings, and MCA filings, nearly 85% of India’s estimated ₹16,000 crore elevator market is concentrated among just five companies. Advertisement Place leaderboard ad banner here, recommended size: 970 × 250 or responsive display ad. The Top 10 Lift Makers in India by FY25 Revenue The revenue table shows a clear global presence at the top of India’s elevator market. KONE Elevator India leads by FY25 revenue, followed by Otis Elevator India, Schindler India, Johnson Lifts, and TK Elevator India. # Company FY25 Revenue Country / Ownership 1 KONE Elevator India ₹3,992 Cr Finnish 2 Otis Elevator India ₹3,250 Cr American 3 Schindler India ₹3,089 Cr Swiss 4 Johnson Lifts Only Indian in Top 5 ₹2,902 Cr Indian 5 TK Elevator India ₹1,650 Cr German 6 Mitsubishi Elevator ₹875 Cr Japanese 7 Fujitec India ₹836 Cr Japanese 8 Omega Elevators ₹547 Cr Indian 9 Kinetic Hyundai ₹130 Cr Indian-Korean JV 10 Hitachi Lift India ₹80 Cr Japanese Advertisement Place in-article display ad here, recommended size: 728 × 90 or responsive ad unit. Revenue Leadership vs Installation Leadership One of the most interesting parts of India’s elevator market is that leadership changes depending on what is being measured. KONE leads by revenue. Johnson Lifts leads by units installed. This makes the Indian market more layered than a simple revenue ranking. Global brands dominate much of the premium revenue pool, especially in high-rise buildings, commercial towers, luxury developments, and large infrastructure projects. Indian manufacturers, meanwhile, continue to hold strong ground across everyday vertical mobility needs such as mid-rise residential buildings, hospitals, smaller commercial buildings, and regional infrastructure. In short, India installs a large number of Indian lifts, but pays higher values for many foreign-owned systems. Johnson Lifts: India’s Home-Grown Elevator Giant Johnson Lifts stands out because it is the only Indian company among the top five by FY25 revenue. Founded in Chennai in 1963 by the John family, the company remains privately held and family-led three generations later. Unlike some global players that are closely associated with landmark towers and premium commercial projects, Johnson Lifts has built its scale through a much wider base of practical Indian demand. Founded in 1963 Built in Chennai by the John family. Three generations Still privately held and family-led. ~18,000 lifts per year Along with 1,200+ escalators built annually. 9,000+ employees One of India’s largest home-grown elevator companies. The company’s strength lies in the places where India’s elevator requirement is most consistent: mid-rise buildings, hospitals, small commercial properties, apartment blocks, and institutional projects. Its market position is not built only on visibility. It is built on reach, service, installation volume, and a deep understanding of Indian building conditions. Sponsored Placement Place brand story, product spotlight, or native ad block here. A Market Dominated by Global Ownership Eight of the top 10 companies are foreign-controlled or joint ventures. Only two, Johnson Lifts and Omega Elevators, are purely Indian. That does not make the foreign presence unusual. Elevators are a technology-heavy sector requiring advanced safety systems, control mechanisms, testing standards, manufacturing precision, maintenance networks, and long-term service reliability. Global players bring decades of experience, established technology platforms, and international project credibility. Otis, for instance, has been present in India since 1953. Globally, it is associated with iconic structures such as the Empire State Building, where Otis elevators were installed in 1931. TK Elevator is known for innovations such as MULTI, the world’s first rope-less elevator system. These companies bring global engineering heritage into India’s rapidly urbanizing built environment. But the Indian story is equally important. Johnson Lifts shows that domestic manufacturers can compete at scale, especially when they build for Indian conditions, Indian price expectations, Indian service needs, and Indian building typologies. Foreign brands lead much of the revenue table. Indian companies continue to power a large part of everyday lift installation. What This Means for India’s Vertical Transportation Industry India’s elevator market is not just about who sells the most expensive systems or who installs the most units. It reflects a broader reality of the country’s infrastructure growth. Premium urban projects continue to favour global brands. Mass-market installation volume continues to create room for strong Indian companies. Both segments are growing, but they follow different economics. This is why the gap between revenue leadership and unit leadership matters. It shows that India’s vertical transportation industry is not one market. It is many markets operating together: luxury towers, affordable housing, hospitals, railway and metro infrastructure, malls, offices, small commercial buildings, public projects, and regional real estate. Each of these demands different price points, service models, engineering requirements, and brand expectations. Advertisement Place mid-article ad banner here, recommended size: 300 × 250, 336 × 280, or responsive ad unit. The Bigger Question for Indian Manufacturing The elevator industry raises an important question for Indian manufacturing: can India produce more home-grown companies that lead not only by volume, but also by revenue, technology, and premium positioning? Johnson

Why Elevator Mechanics Are Now Critical to Vertical Transportation Growth

Otis CEO Says the Industry Can’t Hire Elevator Mechanics Fast Enough At a time when industries are openly discussing layoffs, automation, and shrinking workforces, the vertical transportation industry is facing a very different challenge: it does not have enough skilled hands. Elevator mechanics, once seen as a behind-the-scenes trade, are now emerging as one of the most valuable roles in the built environment. According to a recent Business Insider report, Otis CEO Judy Marks said the company cannot hire elevator mechanics fast enough, with demand for field professionals continuing to rise globally. Otis currently has around 45,000 mechanics, up from about 40,000 when it became an independent company in 2020. This is not just a hiring story. It is a signal of where the elevator and escalator industry is headed. Advertisement Space Technology Is Rising, But Human Skill Still Matters For years, conversations around vertical transportation have focused heavily on product innovation: faster elevators, smarter dispatch systems, AI-based monitoring, destination control, IoT integration, and energy-efficient drives. All of these matter. But the latest workforce trend reminds the industry of something more fundamental. No matter how smart a system becomes, it still needs trained people to install it, maintain it, inspect it, modernize it, and keep it safe. Elevator mechanics occupy a rare place in today’s job market. Their work is technically demanding, physically intensive, and deeply tied to safety regulations. It is not a role that can be easily automated. Marks described elevator service as “truly a craft skill,” requiring years of training and hands-on experience. One of the Highest-Paid Skilled Trades That craft is now being rewarded. The report notes that elevator and escalator installers and repairers earned an average annual wage of $109,820 in May 2025 in the United States, with the 90th percentile reaching $158,890. This places elevator mechanics among the highest-paid skilled trades in the construction and extraction category. But the bigger story is not only about salaries. It is about industry structure. Advertisement Space The Industry Is Moving Toward Lifecycle Value The vertical transportation business is steadily shifting from a new-installation-led model to a lifecycle-led model. As buildings age and urban density increases, the demand for maintenance, repair, safety upgrades, and modernization is becoming more important. A new elevator may be installed once, but it must be serviced for decades. That makes the mechanic central to the entire value chain. In mature markets, refurbishment and modernization are creating consistent demand. In growing markets, new construction, metro networks, mixed-use developments, high-rise housing, hospitals, airports, and commercial towers are expanding the installed base. Every new installation adds another long-term service obligation. Why This Matters for India This is especially relevant for countries like India, where vertical growth is moving beyond metros into Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. As the number of elevators and escalators increases, the industry will need not only more equipment, but more trained professionals capable of supporting that equipment safely. The challenge is clear: the industry cannot grow sustainably without investing in people. Training academies, apprenticeship models, certification systems, safety education, and long-term career pathways will become critical. In the United States, mechanics often begin through structured apprenticeship routes, combining field work with technical schooling before achieving journeyman status. Advertisement Space The Next Big Race May Be for Talent For India and other high-growth markets, this opens an important conversation. Are we building enough technical talent for the next phase of vertical transportation growth? Are developers, OEMs, consultants, contractors, and regulators treating maintenance skill as seriously as installation capacity? Are young workers being shown that this is not just a trade, but a long-term technical career? The answer will shape the future of the sector. The elevator mechanic shortage also carries a message for the smart-building era. Technology may make elevators more connected, but human expertise will remain the backbone of reliability. Predictive maintenance can identify a problem. Remote monitoring can flag an issue. But when safety, repair, calibration, and compliance are involved, skilled professionals still matter. The industry often speaks about moving people. But increasingly, its own movement depends on how well it can attract, train, and retain the people who keep buildings moving. For vertical transportation, the next big race may not be only for market share, speed, or technology. It may be for talent. Source Credit: Based on reporting by Business Insider on Otis CEO Judy Marks and the rising demand for elevator mechanics. Disclaimer: This article is published for informational and editorial purposes only. Views expressed may not reflect those of ISEE Papers. We do not guarantee accuracy or completeness. For full details, please read our complete disclaimer here: ISEE Papers Website Disclaimer

Fujitec India’s Shakir Ahmed on Long-Term Performance in Elevators

Fujitec India Managing Director Shakir Ahmed on Long-Term Elevator Performance ISEE Papers Editorial | Vertical Transportation | Elevators & Escalators India’s vertical transportation market is entering a more mature phase, where reliability, energy efficiency, safety, and lifecycle performance are becoming stronger decision-making factors across residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects. The conversation around elevators and escalators in India is gradually moving beyond installation and upfront cost. As buildings become taller, infrastructure becomes busier, and users expect safer and smoother movement, the industry is placing greater emphasis on systems that can perform consistently over the long term. This shift was highlighted by Shakir Ahmed, Managing Director, Fujitec India, in a recent interaction with Construction Week India, where he spoke about the growing demand for new installations and the increasing focus on reliability, energy efficiency, and long-term value in the vertical transportation sector. Advertisement Space Reliability Is Becoming a Core Customer Expectation According to Ahmed, vertical transportation systems in India must be designed to perform under varied and often demanding operating conditions. Power fluctuations, changing usage patterns, and environmental factors can all affect system performance, making reliability a key part of customer value. Features such as surge and voltage protection, remote monitoring, and responsive emergency systems are becoming increasingly important. These technologies help improve operational confidence and user safety, especially in segments such as home elevators, where regulations are still evolving. In such cases, the responsibility on manufacturers becomes even more important. The system has to deliver not just convenience, but dependable safety and long-term performance. The market is moving from an installation-first mindset to a performance-first mindset. Energy Efficiency and Lifecycle Value Are Driving Choices Energy efficiency is now a major consideration for building owners, developers, and consultants. Technologies such as VVVF drives, gearless machines, and regenerative systems are widely adopted because they help reduce energy consumption and improve operational efficiency. These solutions also align with green building requirements, making them relevant for projects where sustainability and operating cost are part of the larger design brief. While advanced systems may involve variations in upfront cost depending on configuration, customers are increasingly evaluating elevators and escalators on the basis of lifecycle value. Lower operating cost, better sustainability, improved reliability, and long-term performance are becoming central to the buying decision. Advertisement Space Modernisation Offers a Practical Path to Better Performance Modernisation is another important area where vertical transportation vendors can deliver value. Upgrading key components such as controllers, drives, and safety systems can significantly improve elevator performance and reliability without causing major disruption to existing buildings. For older properties, this offers a practical way to improve user experience, enhance safety, and extend the useful life of existing elevator systems. It also allows building owners to respond to current performance expectations without immediately replacing complete systems. Infrastructure Is Emerging as a Strong Growth Driver Demand for new installations continues to come from commercial developments and high-rise residential projects. However, infrastructure is now emerging as one of the strongest growth drivers for the vertical transportation industry. Metro stations, railway stations, and airports require systems that can handle high traffic volumes with consistent reliability. In these environments, elevators and escalators are not just building amenities. They are critical movement systems that support passenger flow, accessibility, and safe dispersal. Fujitec India’s order mix reflects this wider market movement, with a balance across high-rise, low-rise, and infrastructure projects. Within residential, the premium segment is also showing stronger traction, including growing interest in home elevators. Advertisement Space A More Mature Market Conversation The larger signal for the industry is clear. India’s elevator and escalator market is moving from a product-first conversation to a performance-first conversation. As urban infrastructure expands and buildings become more complex, vertical transportation systems will be judged not only by their specifications, but by how consistently they perform across years of operation. Reliability, safety, sustainability, and lifecycle efficiency are now becoming the real measures of customer value. For manufacturers, consultants, developers, and building owners, the focus is increasingly on systems that are built not just to move people, but to perform dependably over the long term. Source Credit: This article is based on insights shared by Shakir Ahmed, Managing Director, Fujitec India, in an interview published by Construction Week India. Credit: Fujitec India and Construction Week India. Disclaimer: This article is published for informational and editorial purposes only. Views expressed may not reflect those of ISEE Papers. We do not guarantee accuracy or completeness. For full details, please read our complete disclaimer here: ISEE Papers Website Disclaimer

Otis Launches Robust™ Heavy-Duty Elevator Range for Data Centers and Logistics Hubs

ISEE Papers | Industry News Otis Launches Robust™, a Heavy-Duty Elevator Range for Data Centers and Logistics Hubs On April 14, 2026, Otis Worldwide Corporation announced the launch of Otis Robust™, a new heavy-duty elevator range designed for the growing demands of mission-critical infrastructure. The product has been engineered for high-intensity environments such as multi-story data centers and logistics hubs, where elevators are expected to support continuous operation, higher load requirements, and the safe movement of sensitive equipment. Otis Robust™ has been developed as a heavy-duty infrastructure solution for facilities that need greater capacity, wider access, and smart maintenance support. Core Purpose and Market Context The launch comes at a time when AI-driven data center capacity and global infrastructure development continue to expand rapidly. With the global infrastructure pipeline reportedly exceeding $2.5 trillion, vertical facilities now require elevator systems that can handle more demanding operational conditions. As data centers and logistics hubs grow taller and more complex, elevator performance becomes a critical part of the facility’s operating efficiency. Robust™ has been positioned to support this shift with heavy-duty engineering, faster delivery readiness, and digital service integration. Advertisement Slot Technical Specifications and Key Features High Load Capacity The Robust™ range offers up to five times the weight capacity of a standard passenger elevator, making it suitable for environments that regularly move heavy machinery, server racks, and industrial equipment. Wider Access The range features door openings that are two times wider than standard units, helping operators move bulky servers, equipment, and infrastructure components more efficiently. Industrial-Grade Engineering Beyond capacity, Robust™ includes specialized vibration-dampening technology. This is especially relevant for the transport of sensitive high-tech equipment in data center environments. Ready-Now Availability Otis has stated that the range is engineered for fast delivery, supporting facilities that need to come online quickly in high-growth regions such as North America, Asia, and EMEA. Digital Integration and Maintenance Otis is positioning Robust™ not only as elevator hardware, but as a smart infrastructure asset. The range comes with digital integration designed to improve monitoring, maintenance planning, and long-term performance. Otis ONE™ IoT Platform Robust™ units come standard with the Otis ONE™ Internet of Things platform. The platform provides real-time health monitoring and predictive maintenance, helping reduce unplanned downtime in facilities where elevator availability is business-critical. Future-Proofing and Modular Upgrades The system has also been designed with modular upgrades in mind, allowing operators to modernize their elevator infrastructure as facility needs evolve over time. Advertisement Slot Executive Perspective “The Robust elevator range reflects how we are ready to serve these fast-growing sectors, bringing ready-now, heavy-duty solutions to market that are purpose-built for high-intensity environments.” Judy Marks, Chair, CEO, and President of Otis Strategic Importance for 2026 The Robust™ launch forms part of Otis’ broader 2026 strategic direction, with the company strengthening its position in digital services, modernization, and mission-critical infrastructure. Acquisition of WeMaintain: Otis has recently taken a majority stake in WeMaintain to strengthen its digital service capabilities. Modernization Focus: The company is also placing greater emphasis on upgrading the global aging unit market, which is expected to grow by 6 to 7 percent this year. Mission-Critical Infrastructure: Robust™ signals Otis’ intent to serve sectors where elevator reliability, uptime, and load performance directly affect business continuity. Why It Matters With data centers, logistics hubs, and other mission-critical facilities scaling vertically, elevator systems are no longer just mobility assets. They are becoming part of the operational backbone of high-performance infrastructure. Otis Robust™ addresses this shift by combining heavy-duty movement capability with wider access, vibration control, IoT-enabled monitoring, and future-ready upgrade potential. Disclaimer: This article is published for informational and editorial purposes only. Views expressed may not reflect those of ISEE Papers. We do not guarantee accuracy or completeness. For full details, please read our complete disclaimer here: ISEE Papers Website Disclaimer

KONE and TK Elevator Merger: Creating a $20 Billion Global Elevator Giant

KONE and TK Elevator Merger: Creating a $29.4 Billion Global Elevator Giant In a landmark move set to reshape the global vertical transportation landscape, KONE Corporation has announced a strategic agreement to combine with TK Elevator, TKE. The proposed merger brings together two of the world’s leading elevator and escalator companies, creating a powerhouse with unprecedented scale, reach, and capability. Advertisement Space A New Global Leader Emerges The combined entity is expected to generate approximately €20.5 billion in annual revenue, positioning it among the largest players in the industry. With nearly 65 percent of revenue coming from service and modernization, the new group will have a strong recurring business model backed by around 3.2 million units under maintenance globally. This merger is strategically significant, aligning KONE’s strong presence in Asia with TKE’s established footprint in the Americas. The result is a well-balanced global organization capable of delivering integrated solutions across diverse markets. Driving Innovation and Modernization As cities grow denser and infrastructure ages, demand for modernization and digital solutions continues to rise. The combined capabilities of KONE and TKE are expected to accelerate advancements in predictive maintenance, IoT-enabled systems, and sustainable vertical mobility solutions. Advertisement Space Customers are likely to benefit from improved installation efficiency, expanded service networks, and enhanced lifecycle solutions. The increased scale also allows for stronger investment in research and development, further pushing the boundaries of innovation in the sector. Synergies and Value Creation KONE estimates annual cost synergies of approximately €700 million, expected to be realized within three years of the transaction’s completion. These efficiencies will primarily come from optimized service networks, procurement advantages, and enhanced research and development collaboration. The transaction values TKE at approximately €29.4 billion, including debt, with a mix of €5 billion in cash and share consideration forming the deal structure. Leadership and Integration The combined group will be led by Philippe Delorme as CEO, ensuring continuity in leadership, while Antti Herlin will continue as Chairman. Representation from TKE stakeholders at the board level is expected, supporting a balanced integration approach. Advertisement Space With more than 100,000 employees across over 100 countries, the organization will offer expanded opportunities for talent development and global collaboration. Timeline and Regulatory Path The transaction is subject to shareholder approval and regulatory clearances across multiple jurisdictions. An Extraordinary General Meeting is expected in June 2026, with completion anticipated no earlier than the second quarter of 2027. Industry Impact This merger signals a decisive shift toward consolidation and scale in the elevator and escalator industry. By combining complementary strengths, KONE and TK Elevator aim to redefine service delivery, accelerate technological innovation, and strengthen their position in a rapidly evolving urban mobility ecosystem. For the industry, this is more than a merger. It is a statement of direction, where size, service capability, and innovation will define the next phase of growth. This article is published for informational and editorial purposes only. Views expressed may not reflect those of ISEE Papers. We do not guarantee accuracy or completeness. For full details, please read our complete disclaimer here: https://iseepapers.com/isee-papers-website-disclaimer/ Source: https://news.cision.com/kone-oyj/r/inside-information–kone-and-tke-to-combine–creating-a-world-class-company-in-the-elevator-and-esca,c4341886

Smart Elevators Are No Longer the Future. They’re the Standard.

Smart Elevators Are No Longer the Future. They’re the Standard. What was once considered advanced is now becoming baseline. Smart elevator systems are moving out of pilot phases and into everyday buildings across the world. Advertisement Space The Shift From Innovation to Infrastructure Smart elevator systems are no longer experimental add-ons. They are becoming a core part of modern building infrastructure. As buildings grow taller, denser, and more complex, traditional elevator systems struggle to keep up with efficiency and user expectations. Developers and architects are now integrating smart systems right from the planning stage. This shift marks a clear transition, elevators are no longer just vertical transport tools, they are intelligent systems that actively optimize movement within buildings. A Market That Reflects the Change The numbers tell the story clearly. The global smart elevators market is expected to reach $19.82 billion by 2026. This growth is not driven by hype but by real-world demand for efficiency, safety, and data-driven operations. From commercial towers to residential high-rises, smart elevators are becoming a necessity rather than a luxury. Advertisement Space AI-Based Dispatch Systems One of the most impactful innovations is AI-based dispatch. Instead of reacting to button presses, these systems predict demand patterns and allocate elevators accordingly. The result is reduced waiting time, optimized travel routes, and improved energy efficiency. In high-traffic buildings, this directly translates into better flow and user experience. Touchless Controls Are Becoming Standard User interaction is also evolving. Touchless controls, powered by sensors, mobile integrations, and gesture-based inputs, are becoming increasingly common. Beyond hygiene, they offer convenience and accessibility. Users can call elevators through apps or simply use proximity-based systems without physical contact. Advertisement Space Predictive Maintenance Changes Everything Maintenance is no longer reactive. Predictive maintenance platforms continuously monitor elevator performance, identifying potential failures before they occur. Systems like KONE’s 24/7 Connected Services use real-time data to reduce downtime, improve safety, and extend equipment life. For building owners, this means lower operational costs and fewer disruptions. Why This Matters for the Industry The rise of smart elevators reflects a broader shift in how buildings are designed and operated. Intelligence is no longer confined to software systems, it is embedded into physical infrastructure. For developers, it improves asset value. For users, it enhances everyday experience. For operators, it brings control and predictability. Advertisement Space The Bottom Line Smart elevators are no longer a differentiator. They are becoming the expectation. As the market grows and technology matures, buildings that fail to adopt these systems will simply fall behind. The conversation is no longer about whether to implement smart elevators, it is about how soon. This article is published for informational and editorial purposes only. Views expressed may not reflect those of ISEE Papers. We do not guarantee accuracy or completeness. For full details, please read our complete disclaimer here: https://iseepapers.com/isee-papers-website-disclaimer/