Pioneering innovations are the hallmark of a successful enterprise. Innovations that provide the right answers to what moves people. One example is autonomous driving. This is an area where Doppelmayr/Garaventa is thinking ahead with the introduction of AURO (Autonomous Ropeway Operation). AURO ropeways bring passengers safely and reliably to their destinations in tourist regions or cities – with unmanned operations and cutting-edge digital network technology. This concept is pointing the way for the future of rope-propelled mobility.

AURO ropeways from Doppelmayr/Garaventa operate with unmanned stations. They are equipped with intelligent integrated technology and impress with the highest safety levels. Cameras and sensors ensure smooth processes and monitor the installation – particularly cabin loading and unloading. The system independently identifies situations that deviate from “normal operation”. If, for instance, a passenger’s ski boot becomes caught in the door, the system reacts immediately and the installation automatically shuts down. It is restarted by a ropeway operative who has an overview of operations from the Ropeway Operation Center (ROC). The perfect synergy of human and cutting-edge technology results in high availability of the ropeway.

AURO on the mountain and in the city

AURO ropeways are set to provide huge benefits not only in tourist regions but also in the world’s cities, where they are seamlessly integrated into the transport infrastructure – thanks to their barrier-free access, reliability and efficiency in operation and maintenance. Because growing urbanization calls for visionary transport solutions. This is where the AURO concept can provide a host of answers.

First AURO ropeway in Switzerland

The first unmanned ropeway went into operation in December 2020 in Zermatt (CH). In the case of this 10-passenger gondola lift with two sections, the bottom and top stations are unattended. One ropeway operative, who monitors the entire operations, is located in the intermediate station.

AURO ropeways are:

• high-capacity
• reliable
• safe
• barrier-free
• modern and visionary

Benefits of AURO ropeways

• Top safety ensured by cutting-edge safety equipment
• The system identifies several situations simultaneously
• Perfect overview in the ROC (Ropeway Operation Center)
• Troubleshooting from the ROC – top availability of the ropeway
• Enhanced boarding comfort through additional cabin stabilization
• AURO operating concept can be extended to include several installations (only one ROC required)