The fully renovated elevator in the Eiffel Tower's North pillar was brought back into service in 2024..
A feat of technological prowess, the new elevator of the Eiffel Tower's North pillar is designed to enhance the visitor's ascent experience, while upholding a tradition of technical and architectural excellence. It replaces machinery that had been in operation since 1965 !
A 100% Eiffel Tower Signature
Just like the elevators on the East and West pillars, the North elevator is one of a kind. Perfectly adapted to the monument's structure, it ascends over 110 meters from the ground to the second floor, following a variable gradient, that is neither completely vertical nor comparable to that of a funicular. Similarities end here, unlike the East and West pillar elevators, which rely on a hydraulic system, the North elevator is equipped with a state-of-the-art electric propulsion system. This approach eliminates the need for a pit while significantly reducing the size of the machinery.
Beyond these technical distinctions, the ascent system is a real masterpiece of innovation. This worldwide unique concept makes it a one-of-a-kind prototype designed with custom-made equipment and certified to meet the most stringent European standards.
A Monumental Modernization
The 6-year renovation project, launched in 2018, brought together the expertise of Baudin-Châteauneuf (control systems, automation, mechanics) and Eiffage Métal (responsible for all structural elements) to completely overhaul the elevator. Nothing has been left to chance: the guide rails, counterweight, cabin, automation, control system, electrical components, and drive mechanism have all been entirely replaced. The works were completed with no interruption to visitor access to the monument.
An Iconic & High-Performance Cabin
Carrying approximately 90 visitors over two levels, the red cabin contrasts with the yellow elevators of the East and West pillars. Selected for architectural reasons, this iconic shade, reminiscent of Venetian red – the Tower's original color when it opened in 1889 – gives the elevator a unique charm. The cabin was produced by Charles Rothermel, a company specializing in the manufacture of command and control cabins of all kinds.
Comfort and Safety at the Core of the Experience
The elevator offers its passengers an unparalleled experience. The cabin features air conditioning, heating and modern lighting to ensure optimum comfort. The swift, fluid, and silent ascent continues non-stop to the second floor, with the change in incline occurring without passengers even noticing.
At the Forefront of Innovation
A near-neutral energy balance – This highly innovative new ascent system ensures excellent energy efficiency. The energy produced during braking is reintroduced into the Tower’s network, lowering its environmental footprint. This level of performance makes it a model of energy efficiency with a near-neutral balance !
Modernized also for easier maintenance and operation – Service teams, elevator operators and technicians also benefit from this modernization. The control, maintenance and troubleshooting systems have been updated and improved to guarantee maximum efficiency as well as minimize the frequency and length of interruptions.
Compliant with the most stringent European safety standards – The certification of this unique prototype represents an unprecedented achievement and an innovation in itself. This elevator is certified at European level and was designed to meet all applicable safety standards, just like cars or airplanes before they are mass-produced. The primary goal here is, of course, to guarantee the highest level of safety for the visitors to the Iron Lady, as well as for the technical and visitor services teams.
Shaping the Future
The North elevator embodies the union of heritage and innovation. With the modernization of this historic elevator, the Eiffel Tower is once again able to offer its visitors three operational elevators.* However, all three elevators are not typically in use simultaneously (when two are operational, the third is either in maintenance or serves as a backup in the event of failure). This renovation, the outcome of several years' work and cutting-edge engineering, promises to leave a lasting impression, all the while meeting environmental ethics standards and the expectations of the millions of visitors who come to marvel at and ascend the floors of the Eiffel Tower.
Discover the history of the elevators of the Eiffel Tower
*A fourth elevator, located on the South pillar between the ground floor and the second floor, is solely dedicated to transporting teams working on the monument as well as supplies for restaurants, boutiques and events held in the Gustave Eiffel Room…
Main photo credit: SETE / J.Schlichter
