Otis Launches a New Elevator That is Simpler to Install, Sustainable to Operate, and is Powered by a Battery When the Power Fails

Otis Elevator Company, a United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX) company, is launching a new residential Gen2® elevator that eliminates the need for three phase power, is solar-power capable, and uses battery technology to continue to run when the power goes out. The Gen2 Switch™ elevator will be available globally through Otis operating units in a phased roll-out in developed and emerging markets, including: Europe, India, South East Asia, and Central and South America.

No machine room or control room: The Gen2 system's patented flat belts and compact machine take up less space. For you, that means no machine room and more rentable space. Even the controller for the Gen2 Switch elevator is compact enough to mount in the hoistway. (Photo: Otis Elevator Company)

The Gen2 Switch elevator 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.

Simpler: 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.

Sustainable: Like other Otis Gen2 elevators with Otis’ patented flat-belts and ReGen™ drives, the Gen2 Switch elevator is up to 75 percent 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 system’s single phase technology is capable of drawing renewable power from resources such as solar panels or wind turbines.

Safer: A battery means convenience without fear. No being stranded in a blackout. No facing flight after flight of stairs with a disability – or a giant load of groceries.

Otis Elevator Company is the world’s largest manufacturer and maintainer of people-moving products including elevators, escalators and moving walkways. Founded 160 years ago, Otis 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. United Technologies Corp., is a diversified company providing high technology products and services to the building and aerospace industries. The company’s businesses include UTC Climate, Controls & Security, which includes Carrier; Pratt & Whitney; Sikorsky and UTC Aerospace Systems.

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