The Gen2 Switch elevator ... runs with single-phase power.

OTIS Elevator Company has launched a new residential Gen2 elevator that is simpler to install, sustainable to operate, and is powered by a battery when the power fails.

The Gen2 Switch elevator, as it is called, eliminates the need for three-phase power and is solar-power capable. It builds on the ground-breaking Gen2 product family, the fastest selling product in Otis’ 160‑year history, with the added benefits of being simpler to install, more sustainable and safer during power failures or outages.

The Gen2 Switch elevator is much simpler, says the company’s spokesman. “All you need is a regular electrical outlet – just plug it in, and the Gen2 Switch elevator has all the power it needs. The elevator operates on single-phase power, making it perfect for retrofits or in new buildings where the elevator would be the only three-phase power installation.”

The new system also meets sustainability requirements. Like other Otis Gen2 elevators with Otis’ patented flat-belts and ReGen drives, the GeN2 Switch elevator is up to 75 per cent more efficient than traditional elevators.

In addition, the Gen2 Switch elevator is the first low-power Gen2 system. The system requires 12 times less installed power from the power grid, compared to a standard Gen2 residential elevator, the spokesman states. The system’s single-phase technology is capable of drawing renewable power from resources such as solar panels or wind turbines.

“From the gearless machine to the LED lights and standby systems, each part in the Gen2 Switch is designed for maximum efficiency. And its battery technology both captures energy from its regenerative drive, and makes the Gen2 Switch renewable-power ready,” says the spokesman.

“Sometimes it’s not the space for an elevator that’s the challenge. It’s all the things that go with the elevator; a special power supply, a machine room; coordinating between trades. The Gen2 Switch system does away with all of that – all you have to do is plug it in. No three-phase power, no machine room, and no control room. The entire system installs rapidly, then plugs in.

“Furthermore, the Gen2 Switch system’s patented flat belts and compact machine take up less space. Even the controller is compact enough to mount in the hoistway. This means no machine room and more rentable building space,” he adds.

Speaking about its operability on battery, he says: “A battery means convenience without fear. No more being stranded or trapped if the power goes out; and no facing flight after flight of stairs with a disability – or a giant load of groceries.”

The Gen2 Switch elevator will be available globally through Otis operating units in a phased roll‑out in developed and emerging markets.

Otis Elevator Company, a United Technologies Company (UTC), is the world’s largest manufacturer and maintainer of people-moving products including elevators, escalators and moving walkways. Founded 160 years ago, it employs 60,000 people, offers products and services in more than 200 countries and territories and maintains over 1.7 million elevators and escalators worldwide.

Otis has installed elevators in some of the world’s most famous structures, including the Eiffel Tower, Empire State Building, Petronas Twin Towers, Burj Khalifa, and
CN Tower.

The elevator and escalator company has recently won the largest single contract in the Indian elevator industry’s history to provide 670 units to the Hyderabad Metro Rail project.

UTC is a diversified company providing high technology products and services to the building and aerospace industries.