Hitachi’s Elevator division has announced their plans to build the world’s fastest elevator for the Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre in China. The proposed elevator is expected to have a speed of 72 km/h (1,200 m/min) and will be able to scale the entire length of the building from 1st to the 95th floor in 43 seconds. For this elevator Hitachi has successfully developed a permanent magnet synchronous motor with a thin profile that delivers the power needed for the immense speed. To reduce the load on the traction machine the main elevator rope has been made thinner without compromising its strength. Hitachi assures that in the worst case scenario of an elevator free fall its braking system shall perform impeccably as it can withstand high temperatures caused by heat resistance.


One of the side effects of high speed altitude gain is the sensation of ear blockage. You might have experienced this while taking off in an aircraft. To make sure that the people in the elevator car do not suffer the same fate, Hitachi's proprietary air pressure adjustment technology minimises the air pressure changes caused by rapid ascension. To make sure that your short journey on the elevator is comfortable Hitachi has added four active guide rollers that minimise lateral vibration. Including two of these high speed elevators Hitachi has promised to deliver 95 elevators for the Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre which shall be ready for the public by 2016.

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Source: News Releases : April 21, 2014 : Hitachi Global via Hitachi to build 'world's fastest' lift in China - BBC News