thyssenkrupp has unveiled the world's first rope-less and sideways-moving elevator system, MULTI. Instead of one cabin per shaft moving up and down, the MULTI offers multiple cabins operating in loop, like a metro system inside a building.

Without the use of cables, MULTI runs on a safe multi-level brake system and redundant wireless data and energy management on the cars. The much anticipated concept today becomes a reality, as thyssenkrupp launches the first fully functional unit at its purpose-built innovation test tower in Rottweil, Germany.

The world premiere will also announce the leading European real estate business OVG Real Estate as MULTI's very first customer. In partnership with thyssenkrupp, various MULTI systems will be installed in the new East Side Tower building in Berlin. The building is set to become a pole of attraction and known around the world as one of the references of the German capital.

thyssenkrupp claims that MULTI can achieve up to 50% higher transport capacity and reduce peak power demand by as much as 60% when compared to conventional elevator systems, these two factors mean a dramatic improvement for high-rise buildings. Additionally, since MULTI can move sideways as well as vertically, and without any height limitations, it enables unprecedented possibilities in the architecture and design of buildings.

Commenting on the launch, Andreas Schierenbeck says: "We believe MULTI is a genuine game-changer that will truly transform the way people move, work and live in our built environment. It will reduce waiting times for passengers and take up significantly less space within the building. MULTI is a key offering that truly represents a landmark revolution in the elevator industry."

(Continued on the next page)