Two specially adapted Böcker Super-Lift transport platforms are currently being used as part of the major Stuttgart 21 project. The powerful rack and pinion hoists are transporting both people and building materials to the new platforms of Stuttgart Central Station during the construction phase. They are a central element of the logistical infrastructure on this technically and organizationally complex construction site.
The location in the future through station presented the project managers with extraordinary challenges. The transport platforms had to be positioned in the existing circular elevator shafts, in which the passenger elevators that take passengers from the distribution platform to the platforms will later be installed. The spatial conditions and the special structural requirements ruled out the use of a standard platform. As part of a detailed feasibility study, Böcker therefore developed two customized special designs for Ed. Züblin AG, the contractor for Deutsche Bahn, based on the tried and tested Super-Lift LX 4024.
The decisive adaptation concerned the cabin geometry. Instead of the usual cabin width of 2.90 m, a narrower cabin with internal dimensions of 1.40 m width and 2.90 m depth was designed for Stuttgart 21. This modification enabled installation in the round elevator shaft without restricting functionality. The base frame, including the complete control unit, could be integrated into the underpass, while the exit is flush with the platform.
Each of the two transport platforms has a high load capacity of up to 4 t and is approved for both the transport of materials and persons. The lift can either be called from the loading points or operated directly from the cabin. With a hoisting height of around 10 m and two stops - at the distribution bridge and at the platform - the systems ensure a continuous supply to the platforms during the extension work.
Special attention was also paid to the installation of the platforms. As it was not possible to drill into the existing new concrete structure, the mast anchorage was connected via the steel structure of the distributor footbridge. The installation itself also required precise planning: all components, accessories and a mini crane were transported to the construction site area in an environmentally friendly manner by rail wagon over the new tracks. The mini crane then helped with the assembly of the transport platforms.
Since spring 2025, both systems have been in daily use on the construction site at Stuttgart Central Station to ensure the rapid transport of materials and people. The hoists have already proven themselves in the first few months thanks to their reliability and high load-bearing capacity. "With this special solution, we were able to implement a transport solution tailored to the requirements of Stuttgart 21," explains Patrick Zengerling, Head of Rack and Pinion Technology at Böcker. "The flexibility of the Super-Lift LX 4024 and the commitment of our project planners prove that Böcker transport platforms are not only characterized by Power, but also by maximum adaptability."
With its load capacity of up to 4 t, a hoisting height of up to 250 m and individually adaptable platform sizes, the Böcker Super-Lift LX 4024 is one of the most versatile rack and pinion hoists in its class. The special design used in the Stuttgart 21 project impressively demonstrates how flexibly the modular system can be adapted to complex structural situations. This once again confirms Böcker's expertise in the development of customized transport solutions for demanding construction projects.
The future through station forms the heart of Stuttgart 21, but Stuttgart 21 is much more than just a station - it is the complete reorganization of the Stuttgart railroad junction. Four new stations, 56 km of tunnel tubes, 11 tunnels, 42 bridges and around 100 kilometers of new tracks will be built, which will run at speeds of up to 250 km/h. Stuttgart 21 will help to significantly shorten travel times on long-distance and regional services, while the future through station will enable many new transfer-free connections on regional services, thus also relieving the S-Bahn with its high daily passenger volumes.
More information about the Böcker Super-Lift transport platforms can be found here
