Keeping your building up to date is more than just a good idea—it’s essential. The global smart elevator market is expected to hit USD 13.1 billion by 2025, and elevator modernization is a key part of that growth. In this article, we’ll explore the top trends in elevator modernization for 2025, so you can stay ahead of the curve and ensure your property is ready for the future.
Let’s dive in!
Integration of Smart Technology
Elevators are rapidly evolving thanks to advancements in smart technology. From improved control systems to connectivity with Internet of Things (IoT) applications, modern elevators are becoming more efficient, safer, and more integrated into the overall building ecosystem.
Enhanced Control Systems
One of the biggest upgrades happening in elevators is the implementation of enhanced control systems. These smart systems allow elevators to operate more efficiently, cutting down on wait times and energy use. By using advanced algorithms, the elevator can anticipate traffic patterns, making rides quicker and reducing electricity consumption.
With better control systems, elevators are becoming smarter, safer, and more responsive to the needs of the building and its occupants.
Connectivity and IoT Applications
Elevators are also becoming connected to the larger building system through IoT technology. This means they can communicate in real-time with other systems in the building, such as security or energy management. For example, connected elevators can report their maintenance needs immediately, allowing for quicker repairs and less downtime.
This connectivity isn’t just about convenience—it also contributes to energy efficiency. By learning the busiest times of day, elevators can adjust their operations, using less energy during peak hours.
As the global elevator market continues to grow—projected to reach $13.1 billion by 2025—this type of smart integration is playing a major role in how we modernize buildings.
Energy Efficiency Improvements
Energy efficiency is a top priority for elevator modernization in 2025. Innovations like regenerative drives and LED lighting upgrades are transforming elevators into more eco-friendly systems, reducing energy consumption and costs.
Use of Regenerative Drives
Regenerative drives are changing the game when it comes to energy efficiency. These drives capture the energy produced when an elevator moves downward with a heavy load or upward while empty, converting it into reusable power. This significantly cuts down on energy costs and reduces the building’s carbon footprint.
Buildings equipped with regenerative drives not only save on electricity but also contribute to sustainability goals by relying less on the power grid.
LED Lighting Upgrades
LED lighting is another key trend in elevator modernization. These energy-efficient lights use up to 80% less energy than traditional lighting and last much longer, reducing both operational costs and the need for frequent replacements.
With the global elevator modernization market expected to reach $14.38 billion by 2025, LED lighting upgrades are becoming a critical part of energy-efficient building strategies. They not only lower costs but also align with green initiatives, making them a win-win for property managers.
Safety and Accessibility Enhancements
Safety and accessibility are always top priorities in elevator modernization, and 2025 is no different. New features are being designed to protect passengers while ensuring that elevators are accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.
Advanced Safety Features
Elevators are getting smarter, and that means they’re getting safer too. Advanced safety systems now monitor everything from door operations to power failures, ensuring that passengers are protected at all times. Emergency communication systems are also becoming more sophisticated, offering real-time updates in case of an issue.
With the elevator modernization market continuing to grow, we’re seeing significant investments in safety, ensuring that both commercial and industrial properties can offer secure and efficient vertical transportation.
Compliance with Updated Accessibility Standards
Accessibility is another key trend shaping the elevator industry. Updated regulations now require elevators to be more inclusive, ensuring they are usable by people with disabilities. This means wider doors, lower control panels, Braille signage, and enhanced auditory and visual signals.
These updates are crucial for creating a more inclusive environment, and they also align with energy efficiency goals, as many of the modern accessibility features are designed to operate with less energy.
Aesthetic and Functional Design Updates
Elevator design is getting a facelift too. Aesthetic and functional upgrades, such as cabin remodeling and touchless interfaces, are at the forefront of modernization efforts.
Cabin Remodeling
Cabin remodeling is a major trend for 2025. Lightweight materials like carbon fiber are being used for cabins and doors, which reduces the overall weight of the elevator, cutting energy use by up to 50%. Modern materials are not only energy-efficient but also offer a sleek, contemporary look.
In addition to materials, touchless interfaces are becoming more common, adding both convenience and safety to the user experience. This is especially important in a post-pandemic world where hygiene is a top concern.
Introduction of Touchless Interfaces
Touchless interfaces are poised to become a standard feature in elevators by 2025. These systems allow passengers to operate the elevator without ever touching the controls, reducing the risk of spreading germs. Sensors, voice-activated controls, and smartphone integration are just a few of the innovations making their way into elevators.
As the elevator modernization market grows, with projections reaching $14.38 billion by 2025, these touchless systems will become a must-have feature, enhancing both safety and user experience.
Conclusion
Elevator modernization in 2025 is all about staying ahead of the curve with smart technology, energy efficiency, safety, and design. From advanced control systems and IoT connectivity to energy-saving regenerative drives and LED lighting, the future of elevators is both smart and sustainable. Add in advanced safety features and improved accessibility, and it’s clear that elevator modernization is transforming the way we think about vertical transportation.
If you’re looking to modernize your elevators and take advantage of these cutting-edge trends, Murphy Elevator is here to help. Contact us today to learn how we can upgrade your system and ensure your building is ready for the future!
Travis graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Entrepreneurship before joining Murphy Elevator as an accounts receivable associate. Since then, Travis has worked as an Estimator and Marketing Director before ascending to the role of VP of Administration in 2006. He also serves as our Safety Director, and leads IT and accounts receivable.