Thinking Big

KONE’s India office installs the world’s largest passenger elevator at the Jio World Centre in Mumbai.

Amit Gossain (AG), managing director, KONE Elevators India, shares insights with EW India writer Sheetal Shelar Patil (SSP) on the world’s largest passenger elevator at the Jio World Centre, Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), a monumental and significant project.

SSP: How does it feel to have the world’s largest elevator by KONE at a landmark project like the Jio World Centre, BKC?

AG: At KONE, we pride ourselves in offering custom-built solutions for unique projects. We are extremely delighted to announce that the world’s largest passenger elevator is by KONE, and it is in India.

We were tasked with the job of building the world’s largest passenger elevator at the Jio World Centre. What ensued was months of planning, brainstorming, innovation and collaboration. The KONE India team collaborated with some accomplished engineering minds at KONE Global to ensure the best possible result. Suffice it to say, the team worked extra hard to plan and execute this world-class project on time. The outcome was this engineering marvel.

Now, let’s talk about the elevator itself. At 25.78 sq. meters, this record-breaking elevator is as big as a room. It has a unique four-panel, center-opening door and glass walls offering a panoramic view. There are two information screens that offer building news and updates. The interior design matches the lotus theme that’s central to the Jio World Centre décor. An ornate crystal studded light forms the centerpiece of this immensely elegant elevator. The end-result is a product that is a perfect blend of engineering, art and architecture.

SSP: What does it represent in terms of an accomplishment by KONE?

AG: Our landmark projects enrich the urban fabric of cities, and we are proud to have played our part. It’s an accomplishment that we are the preferred choice when it comes to bringing the unthinkable projects to reality.

SSP: How does such a milestone in vertical transportation (VT) add to the significance and brand value of the Jio World Centre?

AG: This product is based on customer requirements and is made to order. It will prove to be beneficial for large gatherings. At the Jio World Centre, the requirement was to have the best people flow and avoid lodges and bottlenecks. It was also to ensure that people are not stuck in queues and the elevator ride is smooth, comfortable and safe.

Designed as a centerpiece of the collaboration-focused design, the elevator provides visitors a glimpse into the expansive world of Jio World Centre, BKC, which is India’s new landmark business and cultural destination, located in the heart of Mumbai.

SSP: What was the timeframe and process involved? What were the challenges faced and how did you manage them?

AG: A lot has gone on behind the scenes and definitely into the elevator to make it a safe and seamless ride for its passengers. This elevator was carefully designed, built and tested from the most optimum people flow analysis, with high quality and safety aspects built in. At KONE, we are always up for the challenge; be it in size, speed or in complexity, each project needs careful planning and top-notch project management skills. Together with our customers, not only do we innovate and create solutions that users appreciate, but we also create an experience they can’t find anywhere else. A unique product like this entails a considerable investment of time, energy and money. Elegance and safety, too, are core issues in a product of this scale.

SSP: How do you see such pioneering, pathbreaking accomplishments inspiring further VT industry developments?

AG: All our solutions are based on leading eco-efficient, stylish design and innovative technological platforms. We work closely with our customers and partners, which helps create great experiences for visitors and residents alike. Our design solutions that complement the unique architecture of the building provide excellent ride comfort and smooth people flow. Without a doubt, such projects push the industry’s limits to new heights.

Running KONE in India

Amit Gossain is an industrial and production engineer with a masters in management and systems from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Delhi, and joined KONE India as managing director in 2015. KONE is a leader in the elevator and escalator industry globally and in India. Listed in the most innovative companies list of Forbes eight times, innovation has been a strategic imperative for KONE. Constantly developing technology is an integral part of KONE’s commitment to improve the flow of urban life. Prior to KONE, Gossain was the executive vice president for JCB India Ltd., with responsibilities for sales, marketing, business development, product management and corporate affairs for India and South Asia. Gossain worked with JCB for a decade and, under his leadership, JCB was awarded amongst India’s most impactful brands twice. 

Gossain has worked both in India and overseas. After working with L&T Earth Moving and Construction Equipment division in India, he worked for close to 10 years in Sydney, Australia, with CNH Global, one of the world leaders in agricultural and construction equipment. He worked in various leadership roles, with the final assignment as head of Sales and Marketing-Construction Equipment Group for Asia Pacific, which included Australia, New Zealand, Oceania and South East Asia, before moving back to India to join JCB in 2005.

Amit is currently the Co-Chair of the CII National Committee on Real Estate & Housing and past Chairman of the Urban Development and Smart Cities Committee, as well as the past Chairman of the Solid Waste Management Committee for CII. He represents IEEMA as chairman for Elevators & Escalators Division. Gossain was the president of Indian Construction Equipment Manufacturers Association and the chairman of Solid Waste Management Committee for CII, and the past Chairman of Finland Chamber of Commerce in India.