World’s first aerial tramway with DirectDrive technology: Bolzano-San Genesio line to open in 2027

Fast, quiet, and sustainable connection to the high plateau

The new aerial tramway between Bolzano and San Genesio is a modern, pioneering mobility solution for Alto Adige. The project is a collaboration between Südtiroler Transportstrukturen AG and LEITNER. Starting in 2027, the facility will provide a quick, efficient, and exceptionally quiet connection between the state capital and the San Genesio high plateau, taking around just six minutes.

A technological highlight: it is the first aerial tramway in the world operated with a DirectDrive system. This innovative technology significantly reduces energy consumption, maintenance costs, and noise levels, setting new standards for sustainable ropeways.
 

 

The key figures at a glance:

 

•    Journey time: approx. 6 minutes
•    Cabin capacity: 45 people per cabin
•    Frequency: every 10 minutes
•    Maximum speed: up to 12 m/s
•    Capacity: 270–350 people per hour
•    Project volume: around 27 million euros
 

Bolzano-San Genesio: World’s first aerial tramway with DirectDrive technology

Maximum efficiency thanks to innovative DirectDrive

At the heart of the new aerial tramway is the DirectDrive system, which operates entirely without a gearbox. This significantly reduces mechanical wear, maintenance costs, and energy consumption. At the same time, the system produces considerably lower noise emissions, offering a significant benefit for the surrounding residential areas.

Additionally, sound-absorbing panels in the drive compartment ensure even quieter operation. To ensure maximum operational safety, the facility features an integrated evacuation system with two independent emergency drives, guaranteeing safe evacuation even in exceptional circumstances.

Modern panoramic cabins with smart glazing

The new panoramic cabins combine modern design with a high level of comfort. Over 80% of the cabin is glazed to offer stunning views of the surrounding mountain landscape.
A particularly special innovation of the facility is the programmed polarization-based dimming: when flying over residential areas, the glazing automatically turns opaque and then transparent again to further protect residents’ privacy.

Thanks to their modular design, the cabins can be flexibly adapted to different requirements, such as transporting bicycles or additional passengers.
 

Technical innovations in the carriage

The technical construction of the aerial tramway also features the latest developments:

  • Milled main components: the most important components are manufactured from one piece, eliminating weld seams that affect safety.
  • Carriage rollers with integrated generator: this innovative technology generates additional energy in the cabin itself.

     

A sustainable mobility project for the future

The new aerial tramway will create an efficient, modern, and exceptionally quiet connection between Bolzano and San Genesio. The project will boost sustainable mobility in the region while making the high plateau more accessible.
Construction is set to begin in the second half of the year, with commissioning scheduled for 2027.