Shanghai Museum of Art Pudong and Otis Create Holistic Visitor Journey with Modernized Elevators

The Otis Elevator Smart Cab innovation is now on display at the well-known Museum of Art Pudong (MAP), bringing smart city vision to life in collaboration with Chinese modern artist Xu Bing.

In the first installation of the Smart Cab concept since its global debut at China International Import Expo (CIIE) 2023, Otis modernized two elevators at the MAP and installed the Smart Cab and its passenger-centric features for each elevator. The project continues the longstanding collaboration between Otis and leading property developer Lujiazui Group, owner of MAP, to promote and advance smart urbanization across China. 

“Otis and Lujiazui Group share a vision of smarter, greener and more human-centric urban development,” said Sally Loh, President, Otis China. “In our latest joint project, we are reimagining the elevator space to deliver a holistic experience that transports MAP visitors not just to the next floor, but also into a more connected future. Aligning with China’s push for high-quality development and urban renewal, real estate leaders like Lujiazui Group are taking advantage of advances in elevator design and technology to advance contemporary life. Modernizing elevator equipment creates value for communities and makes the urban environment safer, more reliable and more sustainable for all.”

Taking aesthetics and intelligence to a new level

A winner of the prestigious global Red Dot Design Award for 2024, the Otis Smart Cab combines immersive displays, smart features and visionary aesthetics that prioritize the passenger experience. Modern artist Xu Bing designed high-end elevator aesthetics customized exclusively for MAP visitors. The in-cab displays exhibit art created in space from Xu Bing’s extraordinary SCA-1 art satellite, which was launched into orbit from China in February.

Otis and museum officials unveiled the modernized elevators in a ceremony in November. Shown here are Otis Chair, CEO and President Judy Marks (third from right), artist Xu Bing (second from right), and Otis China President Sally Loh (at right).

The upgraded MAP Smart Cab elevators transform the in-cabin environment to create an immersive space. The design includes streamlined cabin buttons and optimized button placement friendly to children and the elderly.

MAP is an important cultural landmark located in the heart of Shanghai’s financial area. Opened in July 2021, the museum has welcomed nearly 2 million visitors in its first three years, establishing itself as a world-class cultural facility. MAP showcases world-class exhibitions and domestic artists, while promoting international cultural exchange and art education in collaboration with top institutions, including Britain’s famous Tate Gallery and France’s Orsay Museum.