ThyssenKrupp agrees big contract to maintain automated movement at Stockholm’s spectacular metro stations

Elevators, escalators and moving walkways are so ubiquitous in urban environments – at metro stations, airports and other places – that most people probably hardly notice them and perhaps take them for granted. 

Not everyone, however: some of us still actually feel a sense of enjoyment at having their strolls through transport hubs aided by these automated systems, even if it’s part of a daily commute to work.

It’s probably fair to say, however, that these automation systems are less complex than ones which involve movement in less straightforward, distraction-filled environments – like, say, those involving an autonomous car. 

Nonetheless, they are all over the place and of vital importance to modern life. So much so that even small breakdowns can cause severe congestion at urban transport hubs and sometimes close them down temporarily, making everyone late to wherever they are going.

ThyssenKrupp Elevator is one of the world’s largest suppliers of such systems and has recently signed an eight-year contract to maintain the 440 elevators and escalators owned by Stockholm’s public transport company, Storstockholms Lokaltrafik AB.

And some of the settings for these systems, the stations they are located at, are quite spectacular to look at while being transported, as can be seen in the pictures of Stockhom stations used to illustrate this article.

Using the “Stockholms tunnelbana”, the capital’s metro system, may be a daily routine for the local residents, but it is definitely a fascinating experience for tourists and visitors.

The stations are well known for their unique collection of sculptures, artworks and exhibitions and are often considered to be the world’s longest art gallery.

To enjoy the experience – as well as to catch their subway – passengers need reliable and efficient elevators and escalators.

That’s why Stockholm’s public transportation company Storstockholms Lokaltrafik has signed a contract with ThyssenKrupp Elevator to maintain all of the approximately 220 escalators and 220 elevators at the 80 stations along the 110 kilometers long metro system.

The contract is one of the biggest of its kind in Sweden. Since this summer and for the next eight years, ThyssenKrupp Elevator is responsible for a seamless 24/7 operation of the more than 500 heavily used elevators and escalators.

Up to 270 million passengers use the Stockholm metro system every year. That corresponds to more than half a million people per day.

The same high standard that is in place for the displayed art at the stations applies to the mechanical equipment.

No matter the manufacturer, every single transportation unit must run without down time.

ThyssenKrupp Elevator says this is a “challenging task” – and has set up a new branch dedicated only to the Storstockholms Lokaltrafik and for the scope of the contract.

Sweden takes a pioneer position regarding future concepts of transportation and mobility.

Stockholm faces similar challenges of growing urbanization as other metropolises – including peoples’ demand to get from A to B as quickly and comfortably as possible.

In ensuring a trouble-free system of elevators and escalators at the metro stations thyssenkrupp Elevator will just do that.

Andreas Schierenbeck, CEO of ThyssenKrupp Elevator, says: “As city populations continue to grow, passenger crowding at metro station junctions and at peak hours are at a rise as well, so it is essential to offer transportation solutions that save time and meet the requirements of urbanization.

“We are very proud to play a relevant role in the development of the population’s mobility within the city of Stockholm. Marveling fantastic and impressive design of the Stockholm metro stations is a must.

“We are committed to continue this high level of quality through our expertise and experience. We ensure a safe and comfortable journey, where passengers can also take in the beauty of Stockholm’s artistic metro stations.”