The new cabin design of the Säntis cable car has been unveiled.

The new cabins represent the roots and connection to the local area of ​​Säntis Schwebebahn AG. At the same time, they combine modern design and functionality to meet the special requirements of the Wetterberg mountain.

Farewell to a design that has shaped generations

For more than two decades, the distinctive interference pattern defined the visual identity of the Säntis cable car. It adorned tickets, ticket counters, advertising materials, and workwear, becoming an integral part of the brand identity. With the new cabins, Säntis Schwebebahn AG is consciously moving away from this look. The new design places greater emphasis on the connection to the region, the largest Swiss flag on the Säntis mountain, and the history of Säntis Schwebebahn AG.

The fifth cabin of the Säntis cable car is red.

At this year's Annual General Meeting, the new cabin design for the future Säntis cable car was presented to shareholders for the first time. The new cabins shine in a vibrant red, with the Swiss cross as the central design element. It can be found both on the cabin floor and around the cabin. The design was inspired by the Säntis flag, which is impressively unfurled every year on July 31st, the anniversary of our company, by the mountain workers on the north face of the Säntis.

The new visual identity is intended to create a high recognition value and make the close connection to the homeland visible.

From development to final result

The development of the new cabins began around five years ago in close cooperation with CWA Constructions SA, a company of the Doppelmayr Group, based in Olten.

From the outset, it was clear that the cabins should not only impress with their modern appearance, but also functionally withstand the unique demands and extreme weather conditions of the Säntis mountain. The harsh weather conditions characterize this mountain and were therefore incorporated into the planning from the very beginning. Examples of this are the flattened windshields and the slightly extended roof, designed to counteract the effects of ice throw and provide the best possible protection for the cabins.

Maximum view of the Alpstein massif

A key aspect of the design was optimizing the panoramic view. Guests should be able to experience the impressive mountain landscape even more intensely in the future. Therefore, generous panoramic windows were integrated, offering an almost unobstructed view of the Alpstein massif.

At the same time, the needs of different passengers were taken into account to ensure a positive experience for everyone. For example, the lower part of the windows is partially covered with a film to provide visual protection without significantly obstructing the panoramic view.

For added comfort, a permanently integrated bench seat provides an optimal view even while seated. Furthermore, the pull bars are integrated into the side walls, making the interior feel more open and spacious. These are replaced by modern lever handles on the ceiling, offering a secure grip while driving.

Comfort and functionality perfectly combined

During development, various concepts were examined, including balcony cabins and double-decker vehicles. However, due to structural conditions and operational requirements, these options proved impractical. For example, balcony cabins could not enter the existing mountain station. Double-decker cabins, on the other hand, would offer no added value due to operational processes and passenger volume, while simultaneously resulting in longer boarding and disembarking times.

A symbol for the future of the Säntis cable car

With their new design in vibrant red and generous panoramic windows, the future cabins will have a distinctive appearance. The striking design references the company's origins and the Säntis flag, while the functionality and expansive panoramic views meet the demands of a modern cable car.