Visa SpA powers the iconic Val Senales Cable Car with uninterrupted Energy
Visa is proud to have contributed to a major project in alpine cable car engineering: the upgrade of the “Kurzras–Grawand” cable car in Val Senales (BZ), Italy, one of the most iconic and historic installations in the Alps.
Inaugurated in 1975, this cable car connects Maso Corto (Kurzras) to the Hotel Grawand, located at 3,212 meters – the highest hotel in Europe. After almost fifty years of operation, the cable car underwent a comprehensive technological renovation in 2023, carried out by Doppelmayr Italia, the Italian subsidiary of the international leader in ropeway systems. The project aimed to bring the historic line up to the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and comfort while preserving its historical and symbolic value.
The renovation involved a complete overhaul of the mechanical systems within the fully rebuilt stations, integrating modern technologies into a historical context with meticulous precision and quality. A particularly innovative feature is the Cabrio cabins, which offer passengers a unique open-air experience among the breathtaking Alpine peaks.
Visa played a key role in the project by supplying power generator solutions that ensure uninterrupted operation in the event of a power outage. Our gensets power both the safety and evacuation systems while supporting scheduled maintenance activities, guaranteeing that the cable car can operate safely under all conditions.
The project also involved collaboration with Funitek, a specialist in automation for ropeway systems, which designed and implemented a fully redundant control system for the drive, as well as Funivie Ghiacciai Val Senales S.p.A., the cable car operator.
The story of this remarkable technical and human achievement is featured in a new documentary by Automoto.it, exploring the history, evolution, and technological complexity of the plant. Journalist Matteo Valenti guides viewers through every detail of the system, explaining control, command, and safety mechanisms, while highlighting the historical and symbolic significance of the installation. Visa’s contribution can be seen from minute 32, showcasing our uninterrupted power solutions in action.
This project exemplifies how technological innovation, safety, and respect for historical heritage can come together, offering visitors a secure, reliable, and unforgettable experience.
