Austrian lighting manufacturer Zumtobel has introduced the second generation of its Tecton continuous-row lighting system, the Tecton II, which boasts enhanced functionality and design, and rapid installation.

The modular Tecton system, first launched in 2001, has become a benchmark in building lighting, says the company. Zumtobel collaborated with Italian design and engineering firm Pininfarina to develop the Tecton II, to expand its portfolio of the universal trunking system with innovative technology, design and sustainability features, including quick-to-install track and batten components.

Independent testing indicated that the Tecton II achieves installation times averaging 71 per cent and up to 109 per cent faster compared to similar competitor products, according to Zumtobel.

The new system boasts energy efficiency of up to 210 lumens per watt and an extended service life, aiming for a significantly improved total cost of ownership. Its features include high-quality LED technology, excellent colour rendering index (CRI), uniform light distribution, and a tool-free, plug-and-play design. Intelligent control options further minimise energy consumption.

Tecton II is quick and easy to assemble, thanks to its tool-free installation and the ease with which accessories can be clipped in and out.

Zumtobel points out that more than 39,000 km of the original Tecton system have been installed globally since its introduction in production and warehouse buildings, offices and in retail, educational, art and healthcare facilities as a customised lighting solution for various requirements. The system has evolved from a continuous row with fluorescent lamps to an integrated solution incorporating general, safety, and emergency lighting, controls, sensors, and IoT components.

Alfred Felder, CEO of Zumtobel Group, comments: “In Pininfarina, we have found a partner that perfectly complements our strengths. Zumtobel stands for a deep understanding of the lighting market and many years of experience in the development of innovative and aesthetic lighting solutions. Pininfarina contributes its individual signature, which perfectly combines technology, functionality and design.”

“We wanted to create a product that is characterised by an extremely user-friendly, clear and simple design and dispenses with unnecessary curves. The design team has explored the subtle harmony between form and function and ensured that the infrastructure can adapt to different contexts. The result continues the tradition of previous models and offers significant improvements in terms of usability, design and sustainability, opening up new and unexpected possibilities for users,” adds Nicola Girotti, Head of Product Design at Pininfarina.

The Tecton II will be rolled out over four years, with features gradually expanded until 2027. The new battens will be compatible with existing Tecton tracks, ensuring future-proofing for current installations.

The system is quick and easy to assemble,  thanks to its tool-free installation and the ease with which accessories can be clipped in and out. The increased efficiency and greater convenience are reflected in shorter installation times and reduced costs. The fully metric system also simplifies planning and installation.

The system adheres to Zumtobel’s Circular Design Rules, utilising a high proportion of recycled materials and focusing on material reprocessing for resource conservation.

Phase One of the Tecton II launch in mid-2025 will include tracks available in white and black (later grey and silver) with 15 poles for signal transmission and three configurable circuits. Batten luminaires will be offered in various beam angles and light colours, with lengths from 1.0 to 2.5 m and different lumen outputs. The system will also be compatible with Zumtobel’s existing range of lighting elements, sensors, and control systems.

Zumtobel claims extensive testing with external experts and competitors confirmed the significantly faster installation times of the Tecton II, leading to potential five-figure cost savings for customers on larger projects.