World’s steepest cable car opens in Switzerland

Can’t get enough of Switzerland? The country has a great way to bring you back to the land of unending adventures–the world’s steepest cable car officially begins service in Switzerland. If reports are to go by, the cable car provides a direct connection between Stechelberg and Mürren.

This marks the completion of the first major phase of the SCHILTHORNBAHN 20XX project. The new cable car, with a record-breaking gradient of 159.4%, connects the valley floor to the car-free mountain village of Mürren in just four minutes. Covering a height of 775 meters over a span of nearly 1,194 meters, it is a feat of engineering. The two cable cars, manufactured by Carvatech in Austria, can transport up to 85 passengers or 6.8 tonnes of cargo per trip, with a maximum capacity of 800 people per hour. A standout feature is the 11-meter-long suspension arm, designed to handle the extreme incline.

Europe in winters- Must-try experiencesFacebookTwitterPintrest

The system incorporates advanced technology, including the AURO (Autonomous Ropeway Operation) system, which uses cameras and sensors to enable driverless operation. A fully automated loading robot manages freight logistics, synchronizing luggage and cargo transport with passengers via an undercarriage container.

Also, Switzerland’s first Funifor cable car

Simultaneously, the first track of Switzerland’s inaugural Funifor cable car was launched on the second section between Mürren and Birg. During the winter, both the old and new cableways will operate in tandem to ensure sufficient transport capacity for ski operations. The second Funifor track is scheduled to open in November 2025.

Also read: 6 bucket-list destinations in Uttarakhand for winter travel

The Funifor system is exceptionally wind-resistant and designed for year-round operation. Each track functions independently, allowing one to remain operational during inspections or maintenance. When operating together, the tracks are electrically coupled, functioning as a traditional pendulum aerial cableway.

The cable car stations boast unique designs, featuring bright copper façades and finger docks supported by concrete V-pillars that offer panoramic views. A nod to the historic Gimmelwald cable car, the new stations feature visible cable car technology, with guide wheels placed on the roof. At Stechelberg station, the cable car exits through the roof due to the steep incline, an innovative engineering solution.

Also read: Soak, relax, rejuvenate: Top 5 spa towns in Europe

Schilthorn Summit to reopen in March 2025

The upper section of the cableway between Birg and the Schilthorn summit has been closed since mid-October 2024. The first Funifor track on this section is set to open on 15th March 2025, with the second track following in spring 2026. This will complete the SCHILTHORNBAHN 20XX project.