We are expanding our product range to include more energy-efficient, intelligent solutions.

Ratan Singh Sehgal
Managing Director, Hybon Elevators & Escalators Pvt. Ltd.

How is the market for elevators and escalators transforming in India?

India’s elevator and escalator industry is expanding rapidly due to smart city growth, infrastructure development, and urbanization. The demand for vertical mobility solutions is increasing as the number of high-rise buildings and commercial complexes rises. This growth is further fueled by the government's focus on housing projects, metro rail networks, and airport expansions. There is also a growing trend towards digitization and smart building technologies that offer real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and enhanced user experiences. Additionally, energy-efficient and environment-friendly elevators are gaining popularity.

What are commercial customers looking for in elevators & escalators?

Commercial customers highly value the reliability, efficiency, and safety of elevators and escalators. They require 24x7 service to ensure continuous operation, minimizing downtime and providing seamless transit. Energy efficiency, advanced security systems, remote monitoring, and the ability to manage heavy foot traffic are also key requirements. Aesthetics play a role, as elevators need to be integrated into the building’s design. Sustainability is another priority, with customers favoring elevators that consume less energy and have a minimal environmental impact.

What are the major trends in the residential sector for elevators and lifts?

In the residential sector, compact, space-saving elevator designs that complement home interiors are becoming increasingly popular. Homeowners are seeking elevators that are not only functional but also luxurious. Priorities include energy efficiency, noise reduction, and safety features. There is also growing demand for smart elevators that can be operated through smartphone apps, offering convenience and an enhanced user experience. Traction-based pit-less lifts are also on the rise, as they require fewer structural modifications.

What are the key features and technologies incorporated into your product range to enhance the user experience?

Our product range includes cutting-edge technologies such as AI-based predictive maintenance, IoT-enabled real-time monitoring systems, and smart touch panels. These features reduce downtime and ensure smooth operation. The ‘Always Connected’ feature is a SIM card-based system, activated on 5 pre-saved mobile numbers when the SOS button is pressed in the lift cabin during an emergency, ensuring swift response and safety. We also focus on sustainability by using eco-friendly materials, regenerative drives, and energy-efficient motors. Our elevators offer superior ride comfort and silent operation, making them easy to integrate into modern architectural designs. Additionally, custom cabin designs and lighting provide a personalized experience that enhances overall customer satisfaction.

How does safety play a major role in your range of elevators & escalators? What are the new-age safety features?                                                                                                                                                                    

Safety is at the core of our elevator and escalator designs. Our systems include multiple safety layers, such as sensors that detect obstructions to prevent accidents, emergency alarms, and advanced braking systems. In the event of a power failure, modern safety mechanisms like Automated Rescue Devices (ARD) safely transport passengers to the nearest floor. We have also introduced new-age safety features such as the Over Speed Governor (OSG), which activates emergency brakes if the lift exceeds the prescribed speed limit, and the Overload Sensor, which prevents the lift from operating if the load exceeds the set capacity. Our smart technologies monitor elevator health in real-time, notifying maintenance teams of any issues immediately. In addition, our elevators are equipped with seismic and fire safety sensors that meet international safety standards.

What kind of growth do you anticipate in the elevator and escalator market? How are you preparing to meet customer needs?

We anticipate significant growth in the elevator and escalator industry, driven by the construction of high-rise buildings, smart city projects, and the increasing demand for advanced vertical transportation in housing developments. To meet evolving customer needs, we are expanding our product range to include more energy-efficient, intelligent solutions tailored to both premium and budget-conscious markets. Our ongoing investment in research and development focuses on creating technologies like IoT-based predictive maintenance, enhanced safety features, and eco-friendly elevators that align with sustainable building practices.