An elevator every 30 seconds will be a feature of future skyscrapers, promises German tech giant ThyssenKrupp. They have unveiled technology that allows more than one car in a single shaft and the lifts can go sideways as well as up and down.

The company says its invention will revolutionize modern architecture, because central blocks of elevator shafts – a necessary element of today’s buildings, will no longer put constraints on design. Residents will enjoy reduced waiting times and owners will get smaller elevator footprints, freeing up space for apartments, offices and other facilities.