Kumme gondola
Zermatt

The 10-person Kumme gondola lift at Zermatt’s Unterrothorn marks a significant milestone in autonomous mobility as the world’s first ropeway system equipped with “AURO – Autonomous Ropeway Operation.” The completion of the project also represents a comprehensive technological upgrade, as the new system replaces the former chairlift, which was destroyed by an avalanche in 2018. The route extends from Tufternkehr via the midstation “im Wyss Gufer” to Unterrothorn, with the two sections capable of operating independently of one another as needed.

A groundbreaking feature of the Kumme-Bahn is its fully automated passenger service. Thanks to the intelligent integration of camera systems, laser sensors, and motion detectors, the valley and mountain stations operate unmanned, while the system is monitored from the intermediate station. In this autonomous context, product design plays a crucial role in operational safety: An intuitive user guidance system safely directs passengers through the boarding area without the need for on-site staff. The signage and color scheme, developed according to universal design principles, ensures that even people with physical disabilities can navigate the area independently and without barriers.

The aesthetic design combines technological excellence with the identity of the Zermatt-Matterhorn region. In the Omega V cabins, the expansive panoramic glazing ensures maximum transparency and a spacious, airy feel inside. Through an iterative design process, technical requirements and high-quality aesthetics were consistently harmonized to create a cohesive product language. This holistic approach makes the autonomous ride on the Rothorn an authentic experience of state-of-the-art engineering.

Location: Zermatt, Switzerland
Operator: Zermatt Bergbahnen AG
Opening: 2020

Category: Product design
Developed products:
Ropeway cabin OMEGA V
AURO Technologie