Two New LEITNER “Retrofit Projects” In Swiss Ski Resorts

The trend toward environmentally responsible operations and sustainable investments is accelerating in the ropeway industry. One example is the extensive modernization of existing installations and the construction of new installationsalong existing routes. This allows existing infrastructure to be used in the most resource-efficient way. LEITNER is currently implementing two such “retrofit projects” in the Swiss ski resorts of St. Moritz - Corviglia and Arosa Lenzerheide. The focus is on improving comfort and safety and integrating the latest drive technology -including a visual facelift for added appeal.

The Corviglia Ski Area is the local mountain of the world-famous winter sports resort and two-time Olympic venue of St. Moritz in the Engadine. It offers the ultimate in skiing and snowboarding fun on a total of 155 kilometers of slopes that reach up to over 3,000 meters. The operator, St. Moritz Engadin Mountains, has now decided to give the popular FIS lift a comprehensive facelift. As a contribution to economically and ecologically sustainable operation, the existing direct drive - first supplied by LEITNER to Switzerland 20 years ago - will be replaced by the company's own, more efficient LEITNER DirectDrive. As part of the retrofit project, the bubble chairs of the 6-seater chairlift will also be redesigned and will feature a remarkably quiet ride, a wide seat and high backrests.

Cooperation with regional manufacturers also plays an important role in the modernization of the system. For example, Sisag AG, LEITNER's technical partner in Switzerland, is supplying the new control system for the lift. The company has already installed several products for systems in the ski resort, which means that familiar processes can be maintained, and no additional training is required. The new FIS lift will provide a significant increase in comfort and safety for guests while maintaining the same transport capacity, thus contributing to the sustainable attractiveness of the resort. The installation and conversion work has been successfully completed, the chairs have already been delivered and there are no more obstacles to the planned launch in mid-October.

Sustainable “ropeway exchange” in Arosa Lenzerheide

In Arosa Lenzerheide, one of the largest ski resorts in the Swiss canton of Graubünden, LEITNER is replacing a 4-seater chairlift with a latest-generation model. True to the principle of sustainability, the "retrofit factor" is also applied here. The CD4C "Stätzertäli" will run along the existing route, using many of the existing towers and foundations, which can therefore be largely retained. Photovoltaic panels will also be installed on the roof of the top station to generate sustainable energy. The operator, Lenzerheide Bergbahnen AG is also focusing on adding aesthetic value to the project. The new installation in Pininfarina design will also provide a visual upgrade - including the latest ropeway technology with LEITNER DirectDrive, the energy and cost-saving EcoDrive and the LEITNER control system.

Equipped with EVO premium chairs, passengers will be able to enjoy a comfortable ride in the premium segment instead of the usual chairlift ride. Also on this project, work is progressing successfully and on schedule. The drive station is currently being assembled and the rope pull will take place in the second week of October. Commissioning of the CD4C "Stätzertäli" is scheduled for the end of October.

Markus Sigrist - Sales Manager LEITNER Switzerland: “We are convinced that these installations will not only be a milestone in the Swiss ropeway industry but will also serve as a shining example for future projects.”