Strong focus on Drive Sweden's topics during Transportforum 2026

Minister for Infrastructure and Housing Andreas Carlson opened by emphasising the importance of robust transport systems where automation and electrification interact safely with other traffic. It is no longer just about technology, but about resilience and daring to rethink investments. 

Automation and regulations – 2027 as a milestone 

A common thread throughout the conference was that the international rules of the game are now beginning to fall into place. Katarina Norén highlighted that the EU is expected to be able to type-approve Level 4+ vehicles (high automation) from 2027 onwards. This puts pressure on Sweden to harmonise its national traffic regulations so as not to fall behind. 

Here, the Transformation Map plays a central role. The map, developed within the framework of Drive Sweden, is intended to lay the foundation for operators and clarify what applies to actors wishing to establish themselves in Sweden. The goal is clarity for both commercial actors and public procurers, where Automated Driving (AD) is to be an integral part of the transport system by 2030. 

Data as the new infrastructure 

The role of digitalisation for efficiency and safety was discussed in depth. C-ITS (Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems), where vehicles communicate with each other and the infrastructure, was highlighted as a technology with great potential to reduce accidents. The challenge now lies in creating a common standard and "trust" between actors – a digital infrastructure that must be cohesive. 

Concrete examples of data-driven societal benefit were also presented: 

• Mobility Analysis: By using anonymised mobile data (e.g., from The Trainbrain), municipalities can replace traditional travel habit surveys and gain a more detailed picture of flows to optimise public transport and infrastructure.
• Virtual Sensing: Vehicle-generated data can be used for everything from measuring road conditions (friction) to identifying hazardous locations, which saves resources compared to manual measurements. 

Collaboration and the human perspective 

Technology, however, is only part of the equation. In a panel discussion that opened Day 1, featuring several representatives from the Drive Sweden partnership, it was emphasised that we must improve at moving from research projects in a Triple Helix model to real-world implementation. 

Susanne Duval Innings from the City of Helsingborg reminded everyone of the importance of including the human perspective. A new transport system changes our cities and relationships, and we must ensure that we create value for people – not just efficiency. It is about creating a system that is both fair, accessible, and sustainable. 

The panel discussion was recorded and can be viewed here >> 

The way forward 

In summary, Transportforum 2026 confirmed that Sweden is an attractive testbed with high digital maturity and a strong automotive industry. But to maintain competitiveness, courage is now required to invest in large-scale pilots and a proactive approach to regulatory development. Drive Sweden's role as a coordinating force and platform for dialogue is more important than ever. 

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