New eight-seater Gifthittli chairlift: comfort, technology and sustainability combined

Greater comfort and efficiency for passengers and staff
As one of the first eight-seater chairlifts in Switzerland, the new installation will offer passengers maximum comfort and a more seamless experience during everyday operation. Access will now be in the direction of travel, which will increase passenger throughput and make boarding much more convenient. The new layout of the boarding area with a bigger waiting zone will benefit both passengers and staff. Staff will have a better view over the boarding area while the clearer demarcation of the queue from the piste will increase passenger safety. The lift will be operated with the aid of the LeitControl system, with automated processes and an intuitive user interface set to make its day-to-day running easier for employees.

Highest standards of technology, design and ride comfort
The lift is not only technically advanced, it looks good too. The modern station design by Ferrari collaborators Pininfarina gives the system an elegant contemporary appearance. The lift has 75 chairs, each with eight comfortable seats, and a maximum speed of six metres per second. It can transport around 3400 people an hour.

The premium-quality chairs manufactured by Leitner are fitted with comfortable upholstery and blue canopies to guarantee a pleasant ride whatever the weather. Zermatt Bergbahnen invested a total of CHF 25 million in the construction of the new lift. Fabian Imboden, Head of Technical Services North, explains: “Along with the Riffelberg Express, the chairlift plays a key role in connecting the southern, central and northern ski areas. This lift is a major asset to the ski area as it acts as a central link between the different areas. It is the only lift in the central area and provides access to four different slopes, offering guests a range of skiing experiences.”

Taking social responsibility seriously
A new building was constructed above the mountain station garage to house offices, a base for the rescue service and sanitary facilities. “Our Gornergrat rescue service team will be able to work more efficiently in the new modern offices. The location for our new rescue station is ideal for operations,” says Daniel Imboden, Head of Mountain Rescue Service, Northern Region. 

Sustainability and state-of-the-art technology as key principles
Zermatt Bergbahnen is focusing on the new standards relating to sustainability and innovation. The DirectDrive system guarantees almost noise-free operation with maintenance costs at a minimum. Unlike conventional drives, it completely eliminates the need for gear oil. In addition, solar panels have been installed in the station’s windows, helping it generate its own energy.  Being able to reuse more than half the existing tower bases meant that the potential impact on nature was reduced considerably. These measures not only cut the use of materials and resources but protect the environment. The new eight-seater Gifthittli chairlift underscores Zermatt Bergbahnen’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and the highest levels of passenger comfort, laying down another marker for the future of Alpine tourism.

“Gift” theme for opening ceremony 
“It is a gift to be able to put this ultramodern installation into operation,” said Martin Hug, CEO of Zermatt Bergbahnen at the opening ceremony. The Gifthittli chairlift gets its name from the English term “gift house” used for the former ticket booth and gift shop for visitors who once travelled up to the Gornergrat. The theme accompanied the official opening and blessing of the lift in the run-up to Christmas, all presented by Cloé Maria Salzgeber.