THE LONGEST TRICABLE GONDOLA LIFT IN THE ALPS State of the art Eisgratbahn gondola lift from LEITNER ropeways completed its maiden journey on the Stubai Glacier at the weekend The longest 3S gondola lift in the Alps and the world's first tricable gondola lift in two sections featuring non-stop operation – these are just some of the highlights of the new gondola lift that has been completed by LEITNER ropeways on the Stubai Glacier. The new 3S Eisgratbahn entered operation on October 22. A NEW GENERATION OF TECHNOLOGY Responding to an order from Wintersport Tirol AG & Co Stubaier Bergbahnen KG, LEITNER ropeways has constructed a new connecting ropeway on the Stubai glacier. This is the first LEITNER tricable gondola lift in Austria. “This ropeway is extremely important to us as a company. We are proud to demonstrate our ropeway construction expertise in the largest glacier region in Austria”, explains Martin Leitner, Deputy Chairman of the Leitner Group. The Eisgratbahn gondola lift will meet the highest requirements in terms of performance, efficiency, and environmental sustainability and represent a new generation of technology. Construction was completed in only 16 months. “In view of the exposed construction sites, the record completion time and sometimes adverse weather conditions, I think it is fair to say this was a logistical tour de force by everyone involved”, says Reinhard Klier, Chairman of the Board of Wintersport Tirol AG & Co Stubaier Bergbahnen KG. “I believe the new system is also seen as a milestone within our team.” PERFECT COMBINATION OF TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN The 3S Eisgratbahn makes an impression with its perfect combination of innovative technology and modern design. This marks the first appearance of the elegant new “Symphony” cabins based on a concept from Pininfarina, a designer for renowned brands such as Ferrari and Maserati. Design and comfort are based on automotive industry standards: Modern contours, the spacious boarding area, the panoramic windows featuring genuine glass, real leather seats, and Wi-Fi in all cabins ensure a one-of-a-kind ride experience. This ropeway is also the first tricable gondola lift in the world to feature the pioneering DirectDrive. The drive system developed by LEITNER stands out thanks to its reduced noise emissions, lower levels of wear, and energy-saving operation. This project has also paved the way for LEITNER ropeways to undertake further key projects such as the highest 3S gondola lift in the world, which is to be located on the Klein Matterhorn and is scheduled for completion by 2018.