Otis Elevators Meet Modular Construction

At the Max Bögl manufacturing facility, modular elevator shafts are constructed and fitted with Otis elevators before they even reach the construction site.

Modular prefabrication can speed construction time, reduce overall costs, improve worksite efficiency and can have environmental benefits. It is increasingly seen as an option for social housing projects – and Otis is preparing to meet the demand.

Since announcing a strategic partnership in 2019, Otis has provided energy-efficient Gen2® Life elevator units for Max Bögl’s residential construction system “maxmodul.” The Gen2 elevator with a ReGen drive uses up to 75% less energy than elevators with conventional drives. And the environmental concrete used by Max Bögl has a carbon footprint 39% lower than ordinary concrete.

At the Max Bögl facility, after the elevator hoistway is produced, the elevator equipment, including the cab, machine and hoistway components are installed and assembled. Then they’re delivered from the factory directly to the construction site, where the finished hoistway elements are stacked on top of each other and anchored together. Final assembly by Otis takes only about 1-2 days before the system is tested and handed over depending on the construction planning and the number of stops.

“Otis has provided Gen2 Life elevators for modular buildings built by Max Bögl group since the start of our relationship. More importantly, we’ve gained valuable knowledge and experience in how to assemble and install elevators for offsite construction projects,” said Udo Hoffmann, Otis Vice President, Germany & Austria. “We see modular construction as a solution to meet the increasing demand for residential buildings, but also to equip existing buildings with elevators using modular hoistways. This is equally important in an aging society, as it promotes the mobility of older people. In addition, the modular construction method offers advantages in the area of sustainability.”

Photo © OTIS GmbH & Co. OHG

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