Construction

TK Elevator delivers escalator design and digital solutions in Germany

TK Elevator (TKE), a global leader in vertical transportation and urban mobility, has been awarded a notable contract to modernize numerous escalators in the subway stations of Cologne, Germany.

Cologne subway project upgrades vertical transportation network with 23 new Victoria escalators
Fleet to be equipped with MAX Smart Maintenance and Monitoring digital technology to reduce maintenance effort and downtime
TKE digital solutions highlighted as a key factor in the decision

Kölner Verkehrs-Betriebe AG (KVB) transports approximately 236 million passengers annually as the backbone of public transportation in Cologne and an essential part of the surrounding region. To meet their demanding mobility needs, KVB selected TK Elevator to install 23 victoria-type escalators in several high-traffic subway stations. The project began in the spring of 2024 with the first escalator installed at the busy ’Neumarkt’ station in the heart of the city. The final escalator replacement is scheduled for spring 2027.

After installation, TK Elevator will manage maintenance of the new escalators to ensure smooth and safe operation.

« We are delighted that our industry-leading victoria escalators equipped with MAX Smart Maintenance and Monitoring are in step with KVB’s growing mobility needs. In a city like Cologne, known worldwide as a cultural hub and host of numerous major events, ensuring safe and comfortable mobility is crucial for an inclusive and efficient urban infrastructure. »

Bora Gülan, CEO Europe Africa, TK Elevator

The victoria escalator is sophisticated and smartly designed, boasting advanced technology and high efficiency. Its highly engineered, high-quality construction is ideal for heavy traffic. With a lift height of up to 75 meters and a speed of up to 0.75 meters per second, victoria ensures quick and reliable passenger transportation with an energy-efficient drive system that provides a long lifespan and minimal maintenance effort.

Reducing downtime and optimizing efficiency with data-driven MAX digital solution

The new escalators will be equipped with MAX, the industry’s first-ever cloud-based IoT platform designed to enhance operation management by leveraging big data and machine learning to optimize escalator operation. The technology enables predictive maintenance, reducing unplanned downtime by up to 50%.

Shaping the future of European cities with efficient, sustainable mobility solutions

KVB is one of the largest public transport providers in Germany and plays a key role in Cologne’s mobility strategy. With over 4,000 employees and a comprehensive network of buses and trains, KVB significantly contributes to environmentally friendly mobility in the region. Modernizing its escalators is a crucial step towards improving accessibility and comfort for passengers.

As a trusted partner with urban transit authorities, TK Elevator has long provided escalators for significant infrastructure projects to enhance passenger flow in underground railway systems serving European capitals such as Brussels, Madrid, Prague, Stockholm, Paris, Rome, and Berlin. In addition, TKE now equips more metro stations with MAX digital solution to ensure significantly better equipment operation that keeps people moving.

Press release by TK Elevator