A new perspective on elevator use

Are you planning a construction or renovation project? If so, one or more new elevators are often needed. Traditionally, you purchase these elevators with all the (unpredictable) costs involved. At Mitsubishi Elevator Europe, however, they believe this can be done better. For example, with the M-Use® circular use model. We spoke with Ronald Koedam, Head of Sales at Mitsubishi Elevator Europe, to learn more about this innovative model and its benefits.

What is M-Use® and how does it differ from traditional elevator procurement?

"M-Use® is a unique circular concept in the world of elevator maintenance and purchasing," said Koedam. "With the M-Use® utility model, you don't buy a new elevator, you take a new elevator on loan from us. That means we remain responsible for its performance and maintenance." Within the traditional market, you become the owner of an elevator yourself, then have to replace it after a certain lifespan. This is often accompanied by unexpected costs for repairs, maintenance and modernization. Koedam: "M-Use®, on the other hand, offers predictability, transparency and sustainability. Customers pay an annual fee based on the actual use of the elevator. Because of that fixed amount, you know exactly where you stand. And you are always assured of a perfectly functioning elevator."

Advantages of M-Use® over traditional methods

Koedam emphasizes the great advantages offered by this utility model:

1) No more need for large investments. "When buying a traditional elevator you often put in thousands of dollars, but with the M-Use® you don't have to save or borrow this all at once. You determine the amount of your initial investment. After that, you pay a fixed amount per month."

2) More security, less risk. "Because you are no longer an elevator owner, you reduce your financial risks. For example, you don't have to worry about unforeseen costs. After all, you enter into a contract for at least 20 years. During that period, you're covered for repairs, maintenance, insurance and even elevator inspections."

3) Durability. "After 20 years, the elevator can still last a while; an extension to 40 years is then among the choices. And if the elevator really runs out after all these years, we make sure that all parts are reused or recycled."

4) Better elevator performance. "We monitor the elevator for the best performance. For example, we have the lowest elevator failure rate in the Netherlands: less than 1 failure per year on average. And we continue to improve elevator performance."

For whom is M-Use® of interest?

"We see that M-Use® is of interest to a variety of parties, such as offices, CoEs, housing associations and more," Koedam says. "Actually, it offers benefits to anyone who values long-term functionality, cost control and sustainability."

At the World Trade Center in Amsterdam, Mitsubishi Elevator Europe installed 14 new elevators with the M-Use® utility model in 2022. "This unburdens the property owner, offers a long-term fixed price and encourages a sustainable approach," said Frank Folkers, Technical & Facility Director at the WTC.

For housing corporation Wonen Meerssen, M-Use® elevators were installed in several buildings. Eric Donders, project coordinator at Wonen Meerssen: "Seven elevators were completely replaced. In addition, some elevators were renovated. The cooperation went perfectly and the hands outside were worth their weight in gold."

VvE St. Hubertus in Ede also chose an M-Use® elevator. Its apartment complex was using an outdated elevator that still had to be opened and closed by hand. Board member Hans Stroink: "I would recommend the M-Use® elevator to every VvE. A win-win situation: we have a completely new elevator, but for a fixed lease amount per year. Mitsubishi takes care of the maintenance and we can always buy the elevator afterwards." 

Want to know more about M-Use®? The specialists at Mitsubishi Elevator Europe are happy to think along with you.