Lift trends: where is the industry heading?

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Implementing VoIP, monitoring energy consumption, and upgrading emergency systems are essential starting points—but only the beginning. The real shift is moving from reactive to data-driven maintenance.
With IoT sensors and modern platforms, service teams can detect anomalies early, plan interventions more intelligently, and reduce downtime. The outcome is fewer interruptions, better resource planning, and lower life-cycle cost—and, above all, a new customer relationship where you don’t just sell technology, you deliver value over time.
The lift and escalator industry is undergoing a clear technological shift. As legacy 2G/3G networks are phased out, connectivity, IoT, and cloud platforms are no longer future visions but everyday tools. At the same time, building owners and operators expect uptime, transparency, and measurable sustainability.

The challenge: future-proof today’s installations

Emerging trend: AI-assisted guidance in service and troubleshooting

A clear industry trend is that data, cloud, and AI are increasingly used to prepare service work before technicians are on site. By consolidating logs, alarm codes, and history, it becomes possible to form indicative fault pictures, suggest possible action steps, and highlight likely spare parts. The aim is to enhance planning, increase first-time-fix rates, and minimize unnecessary call-outs. As connectivity and access to operating data improve—and analysis methods mature—solutions will evolve in scope and precision over time.

New rules through 2030

We are rapidly moving toward a norm where connected lifts and data sharing are standard. EU initiatives such as the Smart Readiness Indicator and new building requirements push digital, remotely controllable systems that integrate with smart buildings. Sustainability is no longer optional: with CSRD, stakeholders are expected to report measurable impacts across energy, materials, and life cycle. In parallel, cybersecurity becomes a hygiene factor. NIS2 and IEC 62443 raise the bar for everything from remote access to supplier chains. Those who design security in from the start—segmentation, hardening, update routines, and logging—earn trust and business. Add to this tighter safety and communication requirements in lift standards, including EN 81-28:2022 for digital alarm and monitoring systems, which further accelerate the move to connected solutions.

The road ahead: from components to capabilities

The leaders will be those who:
  • Audit their installed base: model, comms module, SIM/APN, energy profile.
  • Migrate communications to 4G/LTE and ensure compliance with standards and operator timelines.
  • Standardise parts and processes (spares, firmware, documentation) to scale efficiently.
  • Integrate data into building and service platforms for predictive maintenance and ESG tracking.
  • Build security in: zero-trust mindset, segmentation, and continuous security updates.

SafeLine’s role

Since day one, SafeLine has focused on the specific needs of the lift industry. Our devices—such as GL1, GL6, and SL6—in robust metal enclosures are engineered for demanding environments, serviceability and long life. Depending on generation, they are 4G-ready or can be upgraded with approved components and firmware. With our field guide and support, technicians can quickly identify devices, verify 4G/SIM readiness, select the right upgrade kits, and carry out testing and commissioning—without unnecessary downtime. Companies that adapt now will not only future-proof their operations—they will be tomorrow’s leaders. We at SafeLine are proud to take that journey together with our customers and partners. Henrik Gyllander
CEO, SafeLine Group Want to future-proof your lift operations for 2030? Book a demo →

Frequently asked questions

What are the biggest trends shaping the lift industry toward 2030?

Four shifts define the decade: the PSTN and 2G network phase-outs forcing migration to 4G/LTE connectivity, tighter sustainability reporting under CSRD, rising cybersecurity obligations from NIS2 and IEC 62443, and updated lift standards — including EN 81-28:2022 for digital alarm systems.

How does the PSTN switch-off affect lift companies?

Any lift with a PSTN-connected emergency phone must migrate to a 4G, 5G or VoIP-capable unit before the network is retired. Companies managing large installed bases need to audit device models and plan upgrades now to avoid compliance gaps and unplanned callouts during the transition.

What does NIS2 mean for lift service companies?

NIS2 extends cybersecurity obligations to a wider range of organisations in building infrastructure. Affected companies must implement controls covering access management, firmware update flows, event logging, and supplier chain security.

How can lift companies prepare for the changes ahead?

Start with an audit of your installed base — device model, communication module, SIM, and energy profile. Migrate to 4G/LTE before network deadlines. Standardise upgrade parts and processes to scale efficiently. Integrate service data into monitoring platforms for predictive maintenance and ESG reporting.

Want to learn more about SafeLine Orion?

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