Transport
Sweden continues to lead in sustainable transportation on both national and global scales. With its large geographical distances and strong focus on reducing emissions, efficient and sustainable mobility is an important part of the country’s infrastructure. Sweden has one of Europe’s most electrified railway networks, while electric vehicles account for a high share of new car registrations. Continued investment in rail, public transport, logistics and transport electrification is supporting the transition towards a more efficient and low carbon transport system.
Around 0.9% of Sweden’s GDP is invested in road and rail infrastructure
Sweden has around 15,700 km of
railway track
Sweden is one of Europe’s leading markets for electric vehicles
78% of Sweden’s railway network is electrified
Overview
Sweden, the fifth largest country in Europe with an area similar to California, stretches 1574 kilometres from mountainous north to sandy beaches in the south. Its geography and climate necessitate a robust transport sector, integral to its infrastructure and economy. The Swedish "Triple Helix" model, fostering collaboration between government, academia, and businesses, has been crucial in developing a modern and technologically advanced transportation industry. About 0.9% of Sweden’s GDP is invested in transport infrastructure, ensuring the modernity and innovation of public transport, freight logistics, and air travel.
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Efficient and Sustainable Transportation Infrastructure
Sweden boasts a government-subsidized public transportation system that is efficient, clean, reliable, affordable and accessible. Its rail network, operated primarily by the Swedish State Railways (SJ), connects major cities and regions, providing environmentally friendly and safe transportation for passengers and freight. The comprehensive road network emphasizes safety, with initiatives like Vision Zero aiming to eliminate traffic-related deaths and injuries.​
Photo: Melker Dahlstrand/imagebank.sweden.se
Photo: Simon Paulin/imagebank.sweden.se
A Diverse and Innovative Transport Sector​​
Maritime transport is vital, with key ports like Gothenburg and Stockholm supporting trade and transportation. The strong shipping industry operates both domestically and internationally, and ferry services connect mainland Sweden with its islands and neighbouring countries. Aviation also plays a significant role, with Stockholm Arlanda Airport as the largest international hub. Sweden is a leader in reducing aviation's environmental impact and is at the forefront of air traffic management and airport security. Innovations include Saab’s GlobalEye AEW&C system and advancements in drone technology across various sectors.
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Driving Green Innovation Through Collaboration and Policy
Sweden's commitment to sustainable transport is evident through policies, incentives, and investments aimed at reducing emissions and promoting eco-friendly options. Pioneering companies like Volvo and Scania contribute globally with innovative vehicle technologies. Three-quarters of Sweden's railway network is electrified, showcasing its leadership in green transportation. The country is also advancing in electric ferries, with SMEs such as Candela, and in sustainable aviation with Heart Aerospace's electric aircraft.​ Academia plays a crucial role in Sweden's transport sector, driving innovation, research, and policy development through close collaboration with government agencies and industry partners. This triple helix model facilitates joint research projects addressing real-world challenges and shaping transport policy. The Swedish government supports these initiatives through funding, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and helping tackle transportation challenges.
The Future of Transport
Electric Road Systems
Sweden is a pioneer in electric road systems, which allow vehicles to charge while driving through technology built into or alongside the road. The eRoadArlanda project demonstrated this approach on a public road, showing how electrification could help reduce emissions from heavy transport and support more sustainable mobility.
Electric Aircraft
Founded in Gothenburg,
Heart Aerospace is developing the
ES-30, a 30-seat hybrid-electric regional aircraft designed for
short-haul travel. It is expected to offer an all-electric range of 200 kilometres and a hybrid range of up to 800 kilometres, helping reduce emissions from regional aviation.
Learn More:
Curious to see how Sweden’s expertise takes shape in practice? Here you’ll find links to key Swedish organizations, government agencies and business players. They offer insights, connections and ways to engage across sectors. If you want to explore further or get in touch with the right actors - this is where to start.
A Selection of Government Bodies
Swedish Maritime Administration (Sjöfartsverket)
Swedish Transport Administration (Trafikverket)
Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen)
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A Selection of Private Entities
SWERIG (Swedish Rail Industry Group)
