As skyscrapers get taller, the need for faster elevators becomes more prevalent. The record for the world’s fastest elevator currently rests with the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa in Dubai. It can travel at top ascending speeds of 10 meters per second, or 36 kilometers per hour.
Mitsubishi Electric plans to beat that record with their latest design for the Gensler’s Shanghai Tower set to be completed in 2014. The Shanghai Tower will stand at 2,073-foot and become the world’s 2nd tallest building, after the Burj Khalifa.
Photo via Architect Magazine
“In response to the increasing height of high-rise buildings amid continuing urban population growth, the role of elevators is gaining even greater importance,” the Japanese company said in a statement. “In response, Mitsubishi Electric is developing advanced solutions incorporating technologies and equipment for enhanced drive and controllability, safety, super high-rise cable mechanics and passenger comfort.”
Photo via Mitsubishi Electric.
Mitsubishi’s state-of-the-art “bullet elevator” will be able to travel at record-breaking speeds of 40 miles per hour, or about 1,080 meters (3,543 feet) per minute. Sounds more like a roller coaster than an elevator. But occupants of the Shanghai Tower should have nothing to fear, Mitsubishi claims that the air pressure inside the elevator will be controlled to eliminate discomfort such as popping of the ears.
To read more about this record-breaking elevator visit www.architectmagazine.com.
