Renovation of the North Elevator of the Eiffel Tower: a technological and architectural renaissance

This renovation is a true technical feat: from the pulleys to the cabins, including the tracks, counterweights and automation system, the entirety of this uniquely functioning device has been modernized to meet the most stringent certification standards, while preserving the heritage of the monument.

A uniquely functioning elevator

Like the other elevators in the Eiffel Tower, the North elevator – which was installed in 1965 – is unique in its kind. Due to the unique architecture of the Iron Lady, it follows a variable slope, neither completely vertical nor comparable to that of a funicular. This particularity makes it a true prototype, where each component must be imagined and designed specifically. Unlike the other two elevators located in the East and West pillars, which use a hydraulic system, the North elevator is also electrically propelled to cover the 110 meters separating the forecourt from the 2nd floor of the monument.

An extraordinary renovation

Begun in 2018, the renovation of the North elevator, after 58 years of service, represented a major project for the Eiffel Tower. With the support and expertise of the companies Eiffage Métal and Baudin Chateauneuf, all of the elevator components were completely redesigned. From the cabin to the counterweight, from the elevator tracks to the automation system, including the electrical equipment, each element was modernized to improve the experience of users – employees and visitors – while strengthening safety standards.

The heritage dimension was at the heart of this approach, ensuring that the renovation fits perfectly into the historic structure of the monument while preserving the operation of the monument.

The revival of the North elevator: safety and energy saving

This complete renovation marks a turning point in the history of the North elevator, which now combines technical innovation, comfort and energy performance. With a system capable of reinjecting the energy produced during braking into the Tower network, the elevator considerably reduces its ecological footprint. The ascent, now faster thanks to the elimination of the technical stop on the first floor, is smooth. Visitors' waiting time is thus significantly improved. This modernization, which complies with the most demanding European standards, contributes to its long-term preservation.

The Eiffel Tower elevators: a preserved and continuously modernized heritage

The renovation of the Eiffel Tower's North elevator is part of SETE's ongoing approach to preserving and maintaining the exceptional heritage of the Iron Lady. The goal is to modernize while respecting the soul of the monument and its unique architecture, thus perpetuating the technical excellence that characterized Gustave Eiffel's audacity and engineering.

The North Elevator in a few figures

• 110 trips per day on average between the ground and the 2nd floor
• 15 hours: The duration of use of the elevator per day
• 90 people can be accommodated in the two cabins
• 3.5 million passengers per year
• 2 meters/second: The speed of movement
• 7 min: The average duration of a round trip