The world’s steepest cable car commenced operations in Switzerland on December 14, 2024, connecting Stechelberg and Mürren. This remarkable engineering achievement, part of the SCHILTHORNBAHN 20XX project, boasts an unprecedented gradient of 159.4 per cent and traverses 775 metres in height over a distance of nearly 1,194 metres. Here are all of the other important details that you would need to know about this amazing new cable car route.
World’s Steepest Cable Car Is Now Open In Switzerland
The Austrian-built cable cars, manufactured by Carvatech, each accommodate 85 passengers or 6.8 tonnes of cargo, with an hourly capacity of 800 people. A distinctive feature is the 11-metre suspension arm, necessitated by the extreme gradient.
The system operates autonomously through the AURO system, utilising cameras and sensors for constant monitoring, eliminating the need for onboard personnel. An automated robot manages freight logistics, with cargo transported in containers beneath the passenger cabins.
The official inauguration took place on December 13, 2024. It drew over 600 guests to the new Stechelberg Valley station. The celebration, hosted by Monika Erb, included inaugural rides, guided tours of the facilities, and festivities that continued into the evening.
Witness Breathtaking Views Between Stechelburg And Murren
Concurrent with this launch, Switzerland’s first Funifor cable car began operating between Mürren and Birg. During the winter season, both the old and new systems will run in parallel to maintain ski transport capacity.
The second Funifor track is scheduled to open in November 2025, featuring wind-resistant cars that can each transport 100 passengers. The stations themselves showcase innovative design elements. They have distinctive copper façades and finger docks supported by concrete V-supports, offering unobstructed mountain views.
In a nod to historical design, the guide wheels are positioned externally on the roof, reminiscent of the 1960s Gimmelwald station. The Stechelberg station features an unusual roof-based entry and exit system, necessitated by the extreme gradient.
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Cover Image Credits: Press Release
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