The lift industry is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancements and a growing emphasis on sustainability and design. In this article we will look at industry trends and how they are shaping the future of vertical transportation, transforming lifts from simple conveyance tools into smart, eco-friendly, and aesthetically pleasing components of modern architecture. Learn how by modernising your lift(s) you can improve the passenger experience and passenger safety. Join us as we explore the top trends in the lift industry for 2024.

1. Smart Lifts and IoT Integration

Smart lifts equipped are now able to be equipped with Internet of Things (IoT) technology.
IoT are sensors, software, and other cool tech that can be integrated into your lift for the specific purpose of connecting, exchanging and sharing data with other devices and systems over the internet. This is revolutionising the lift industry by enabling seamless connectivity and communication between various components. This enables your lifts to leverage real-time data collection and analytics to enhance efficiency, predict maintenance needs, and provide personalised user experiences. Lift mains supply monitoring and predictive maintenance systems can identify potential issues before they become problematic, reducing downtime and extending the life of lift systems. Moreover, smart lifts can adapt to individual user preferences, offering a more intuitive and responsive ride. As IoT technology continues to advance, smart lifts are set to become a cornerstone of modern vertical transportation, delivering enhanced convenience and reliability.

2. Eco-Friendly, Energy Efficient Modern Lifts for Sustainable Living

With many businesses and organisations now having strong sustainability initiatives in place, the lift industry is also embracing the issue of sustainability with eco-friendly designs that reduce energy consumption and minimise environmental impact without having any negative effect on performance.
At VM Elevators energy efficiency is one of our core values. All new installations are installed to the highest energy efficiency rating possible, which is A Class for lifts and A+++ for escalators. We deploy the latest innovative techniques and solutions to achieve these ratings to ensure you spend less and help protect the environment. Measures we utilise include LED lighting, standby modes when lifts are not in use, and regenerative drives that capture the heat generated when the lift is in use and converts this into reusable energy.
These lifts are also constructed using materials with low environmental impact, aligning with global efforts toward sustainable building practices. By reducing our carbon footprint and energy consumption, eco-friendly lifts support the growing demand for green solutions in urban environments. As sustainable living becomes a priority for builders and developers, eco-friendly lifts are expected to become a standard feature in new and retrofitted buildings.

3. Destination Control Systems (DCS) & Touchless Solutions

Lift technology has come a long way in the past few years and some of the improvements involve some rather impressive digital display innovations. Destination Control Systems (DCS) are transforming how lifts manage passenger traffic, particularly in high-rise buildings.
Unlike conventional lifts which only allow selection of the desired travel direction, DCS optimises lift operation by assigning passengers to specific lifts based on their destination floors, significantly reducing wait times. By removing unnecessary stops, creating less crowded lifts and with user friendly touch screen panels this all results in overall improved efficiency and conveniency. This technology is crucial in high-traffic buildings, where efficient traffic management enhances user experience and reduces congestion. As urban environments continue to grow vertically, the adoption of DCS will become increasingly important, setting a new standard for lift performance and user satisfaction.

4. Machine Room-Less (MRL) Lifts

Machine room-less (MRL) lifts are gaining popularity due to their space-saving design and cost-effectiveness. Unlike traditional lifts that require a separate machine room, MRL lifts integrate machinery within the hoistway, making them ideal for urban areas with limited space availability. This compact design offers greater flexibility in building layout and reduces construction costs. As cities continue to expand and space becomes a premium, MRL lifts provide an efficient solution for both new developments and existing buildings seeking modernisation.

5. Biometric Security Features

As security becomes a growing concern in urban environments, lifts are incorporating advanced biometric security features to enhance access control and passenger safety. Biometric systems such as fingerprint and facial recognition ensure that only authorised individuals can access specific floors or areas within a building. These features provide an additional layer of security, making vertical transportation safer and more convenient for occupants. As security technology evolves, biometric features will become an integral part of modern lift design, addressing the need for secure and efficient access management.

6. Customisation and Aesthetic Design

Lifts are no longer just functional components; they are becoming design statements that complement a building’s overall aesthetic. The trend toward customisation allows architects and building and property owners to tailor lift designs to harmonise with the building’s architecture. Unique material choices, innovative lighting configurations, and bespoke interior design elements contribute to creating visually appealing and personalised lift spaces. This emphasis on aesthetics transforms lifts into integral parts of a building’s identity, offering passengers a more engaging and immersive experience.

Design Trends and Innovations to Enhance Lift Experience

Modern lifts no longer need to look sterile. The interior design of your lift can be created to fit the aesthetics of your building, so it becomes an expansion of that space and not just a box to shuffle people to and from floors within in. Below we look at some of the current design trends that are a huge hit right now to really make your lift stand out.

1. Panoramic Views with Glass-Enclosed Lifts:
   Lifts with floor-to-ceiling glass panels create a sense of openness and connection with the environment, turning the lift ride into a moving observation deck. This design is especially impactful in buildings with scenic views, such as high-rise offices overlooking city skylines.
2. Interactive Walls for Engaging Rides:
   Incorporating touchscreens or digital displays inside lifts can transform the passenger experience. Interactive walls can showcase art, information, or games, keeping passengers engaged and entertained during their journey.
3. Dynamic Lighting for Ambience:
   Dynamic LED lighting systems can change colour, intensity, and patterns to create different atmospheres within the lift. This allows for the customisation of lighting to match the time of day or the building’s purpose, enhancing the overall aesthetic experience.
4. Biophilic Design Elements:
   Bringing elements of nature into lift design, such as natural materials, living walls, or projected nature scenes, can create a calming and welcoming environment. This design approach is particularly beneficial in settings like healthcare facilities, where a soothing atmosphere is essential.

7. Innovations in Emergency Evacuation

Safety is a cornerstone of lift design and a top priority at VM Elevators. Recent innovations are revolutionising emergency evacuation systems, with advanced technologies such as ropeless lifts and dedicated evacuation lifts ensuring safe and efficient evacuations during emergencies. These systems prioritise passenger safety, enhancing the resilience of modern building infrastructure. As safety standards continue to evolve, these innovations will be crucial in shaping the future of lift design, ensuring lifts are both efficient and safe in critical situations.

The lift industry is set for significant advancements in 2024, driven by breakthroughs in technology, sustainability, and design. Smart lifts, eco-friendly technologies, and customisable aesthetics are redefining the landscape, promising a future of vertical transportation that is more efficient, secure, and visually appealing than ever before. By embracing these trends, architects, builders, and developers can create lift systems that not only meet the demands of modern living but also enhance the overall building experience.

Lift Modernisation

At VM Elevators we can cover all your lift modernisation needs. Our dedicated Operational team of experts assess existing vertical transportation infrastructure, employing innovative solutions tailored to enhance efficiency and reliability. From upgrading lift control systems to installing energy-efficient components, we ensure seamless integration of modern technologies while minimising disruptions to daily operations. With a focus on sustainability and customer satisfaction, VM Elevators’ modernisation services breathe new life into aging systems, optimising performance and elevating user experiences.

Benefits of Lift Modernisation

There are many benefits of lift modernisation. Passenger Safety, improved aesthetics, prolonged life of your lift and will most likely be cheaper than a total new lift installation.

Lift Modernisation Services

New Lift Installation

At VM Elevators we offer a premium lift design and new installation service, setting the benchmark in safety, energy-efficiency, and reliability. Our Operations team of skilled professionals meticulously assesses every project, ensuring the seamless integration of state-of-the-art vertical transportation tailored to each client’s needs. From residential buildings to commercial and public complexes, our new installations guarantee smooth vertical mobility, adhering to the highest industry standards. With a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, we deliver unparalleled lift installation solutions, elevating experiences and enhancing accessibility for all.

Learn more about our new lift & escalator installation services New Lift Installation Services

Is your lift starting to show its age? Read on and below we will cover the top signs that your lift needs modernisation or refurbishing. From frequent breakdowns requiring service calls to outdated aesthetics, these issues can disrupt building operations and frustrate passengers. While regular lift maintenance can keep a lift in service for many years, there comes a time when a full modernisation is the best way forward. If you’re noticing any of the following warning signs, it might be time to discuss your lift modernisation options with our expert team at VM Elevators. We have a variety of lift solutions available for all budgets and all types of lifts. Lift modernisation doesn’t always mean a full lift replacement is needed so this can keep the cost down vs a total new lift replacement.

Frequent Breakdowns and Lift Repairs

If your lift is constantly out of order and needs frequent repairs, it could be a sign that it’s outdated and in need of some lift upgrades. Older lifts often have components that are no longer reliable or even available and even regular maintenance will not eliminate that issue. This can lead to frequent malfunctions that disrupt building operations and inconvenience your passengers. This can cause frustration and lead to many frequent call-backs.

Inefficient Energy Consumption

Older lifts are often energy guzzlers, consuming more power than necessary. This inefficiency not only drives up energy costs but also increases your building’s carbon footprint. Upgrading to a modern lift can significantly reduce energy consumption. Our range of lift controllers includes regenerative systems that not only save energy but also extend the lifespan of your lift.

Noisy Operations and Jerky Movements

If your lift makes unsettling noises or has jerky starts and jerky stops, it could be a sign of an ageing door motor or other outdated components causing problems. These issues are common in older lifts and are often the leading causes of breakdowns. A modernisation package typically includes door operator replacement and refurbishment, ensuring smoother and quieter operation.

Outdated Safety Features

Passenger safety should always be top priority, but older lifts may not meet current safety standards. Modern lift components offer advanced safety features that can help prevent accidents and injuries, providing complete reassurance for both building managers and passengers.

Unappealing Aesthetics

An outdated lift can drag down the overall appearance of your building. If the interiors look worn or uninviting, it may be time to refresh the aesthetics. VM Elevators offers a wide range of high-quality lift fixtures and accessories from many brands in the lift industry, perfect for modernisation projects. Whether it’s new finishes, push stations, or indicators, these upgrades can create a more welcoming environment for your passengers.

Ageing Equipment

If you have a system over 15 years old, it’s likely time to think about an upgrade. A lift has a typical service life of between 15-25 years. Even with regular lift maintenance, older components become harder to replace as manufacturers discontinue parts. This can lead to extended downtime and costly repairs. Modernising your lift not only ensures continued operation but also updates it with the latest technology, making it more reliable and efficient. If you’re noticing any of these signs, it’s worth getting your lift surveyed to assess its performance, safety, and compliance with current standards. VM Elevators offers a thorough analysis that covers everything from acceleration and deceleration to sound levels and door opening times.Once you have the results, our team of experts can work with you to determine the best course of action, whether that’s a full modernisation or a phased approach tailored to your budget. We understand that modernisations can be disruptive, so we work efficiently to minimise inconvenience and downtime while delivering top-notch service.

Lift replacement vs Lift Modernisation

When deciding between lift replacement and lift modernisation, it’s essential to consider the condition and needs of your existing system. Lift replacement involves completely removing the old lift and installing a new one, which can be a more extensive process. On other hand, lift modernisation focuses on upgrading critical components of the existing lift, such as controllers, motors, and safety systems. This approach is often more cost-effective and less disruptive, providing a significant improvement in functionality and reliability while extending the life of the current lift. The choice between the two largely depends on the age, condition, and specific requirements of your building’s lift system.

Ready To Discuss?

Arrange a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your lift refurbishment and lift modernising service needs. As lift specialists, we provide comprehensive support every step of the way, offering repair service and maintenance, and more. Contact our friendly team using our lift consultation form or call us at 0800 448 8615. We’re dedicated to keeping your lifts running smoothly and safely for years to come. Be sure to check out our recent case studies showcasing the modernisation work we’ve completed for numerous NHS trusts and leading hospitality and retail firms.