Smart Mobility
Taking us into the Future
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With roughly 980 miles between the mountainous north and the sandy beaches of the south, Sweden – roughly the size of California but with the population of North Carolina – is highly dependent on smart solutions that enable people to move around.

Smart Mobility – Taking us into the Future is a display of mobility in a Swedish context with a global impact. Learn about historic changemakers and the role of failed experiments. Discover how Swedes carry their babies, protect their heads when biking, automate mining exploration, and move freely in nature with or without physical disabilities. We invite you to find out what mobility is today, and how much smarter it will be in the future.

Today’s solutions for moving goods and people place too much of a burden on the environment, involve unnecessary health risks, and are rarely accessible to everyone. The concept of mobility is central to our lifestyles. We travel, shop and interact with people in altogether new ways, making it even more important to ensure that the future of mobility is sustainable and inclusive.

Remarks by Madeleine Sjöstedt, Director General, The Swedish Institute.

From electrified roads to automation, the technologies to make change happen are already well underway. What is needed is regulation ensuring that the future of mobility is sustainable, safe, efficient and available to everyone. By encouraging innovation, regulation and investment to work together towards the same goal, Sweden has become one of the frontrunners of new mobility solutions.

Today, transportation accounts for about one third of Sweden’s total greenhouse gas emissions, a stumbling block on Sweden’s road to becoming a zero net greenhouse gas emitter. Investing in renewable energy and fossil-free transportation calls for a shift in technology, new ways of doing business, a new regulatory framework and, above all, a total change in people’s mindset of what constitutes mobility.

The exhibition will be on display until February 20, 2022.

Producers

Swedish Institute, Embassy of Sweden in Washington, D.C.
Graphic Design Kidler
Illustrations Rippler Communications
Editor Lagerberg Media
Exhibition Design Anton Sjöström, Furniture and Design

Partners

umbee LabsCake
Civil Rights Defenders
Drive Sweden
EcoRide/Walleräng
Edeva
Einride
Elonroad
Ericsson One
Everdrone
Gävleborg County Council
Hugo
Hövding
If P&C Insurance Company
IKEA
Inzile
Museum of Failure
Najell
Hugo
HövdingIf P&C Insurance Company
IKEA
Inzile
Museum of Failure
Najell
National Museum of Science and Technology in Sweden
Panthera X
Permobil
Prisma Daps
Rumtiden Ideal Lab
Sensair
Sensys Gatso
The Swedish Transport AdministrationThe Train Brain
National Museum of Science and Technology in SwedenPanthera X

PermobilPrisma Daps
Rumtiden Ideal Lab
Sensair
Sensys
Gatso
The Swedish Transport AdministrationThe Train Brain
Trust Care
Uniti
Univrses
Urban
ICT Arena
Urskog
Velove
Viscando
Volvo Cars
Volvo Trucks

Innovations That Move Us

Sweden is an innovative powerhouse in mobility, with a history of game-changing inventions under its belt, including Aina Wifalk’s modern walker for people with disabilities and Volvo’s three-point safety belt. And history is still being written.

The Heart Box, a device that gives a transplanted heart blood and oxygen to allow longer transports, is currently being evaluated by Swedish hospitals. Meanwhile, scientists in Gothenburg are working on bio-inks that will allow the printing of new organs. Mobility is not always about new ways of transportation, but also about ways to avoid transportation.

The Swedish start-up scene is home to many new businesses that focus on smart mobility, such as automated and electric heavy trucks (Einride), sustainable personal transport (Uniti) and delivery cargo bicycles (Velove).

These start-ups benefit from unique collaborations with established industry, as well as from supportive system of incubators and science parks. The science parks represent one example of Sweden’s proclivity to collaborate through the triple helix system: when the private sector, academia and government join forces to innovate and implement.

Lindholmen Science Park in Gothenburg is host to some of Sweden’s biggest development projects in transportation. One example is Drive Sweden, a strategic innovation program that funds work around five thematic areas: society planning, policy development, public engagement, digital infra-structure and business models.

To reach success, one must first dare to fail. Sweden’s social contract has long provided entrepreneurs and innovators with a safety net that alleviates some of the financial fears. In Sweden, which even has a Museum of Failures, the government has your back if you fail.

Smart mobility can be achieved as long as technological breakthroughs, commercial expertise and political will are in sync.

Ericsson ONE

Ericsson ONE

Ericsson ONE is a global community of thinkers, designers, developers and entrepreneurs that make bold innovations come to life. The Asta Zero incubation project is part of the Ericsson ONE initiative, exploring the safe future of autonomous transport. Ericsson ONE is also part of investigating 5G mining technology in northern Sweden. The tech revolution is set to dramatically shift our perception of this hazardous and challenging operational environment thanks to the remote control of machines and smart ventilation. With low latency and ultra-high-speed connectivity, remote control applications help avoid having people in the most dangerous areas, and at the most dangerous times.

Ericsson ONE is a global community of thinkers, designers, developers and entrepreneurs that make bold innovations come to life. The Asta Zero incubation project is part of the Ericsson ONE initiative, exploring the safe future of autonomous transport. Ericsson ONE is also part of investigating 5G mining technology in northern Sweden. The tech revolution is set to dramatically shift our perception of this hazardous and challenging operational environment thanks to the remote control of machines and smart ventilation. With low latency and ultra-high-speed connectivity, remote control applications help avoid having people in the most dangerous areas, and at the most dangerous times.
UbiGo

UbiGo

UbiGo – a pioneer in what is called Mobility as a Service (MaaS) – offers urban households mobility subscriptions as an easier and more sustainable alternative to owning a car. Depending on the subscriber’s needs, public transport, taxi, car rental and car sharing are all available from one simple app. The service is now available in Stockholm.

UbiGo – a pioneer in what is called Mobility as a Service (MaaS) – offers urban households mobility subscriptions as an easier and more sustainable alternative to owning a car. Depending on the subscriber’s needs, public transport, taxi, car rental and car sharing are all available from one simple app. The service is now available in Stockholm.

HUGO

HUGO

HUGO is an autonomous last mile delivery robot that will travel on sidewalks and in pedestrian zones at walking speed. They stand out from the competition through its modular design. The HUGO prototype is based on a modular design where all sensors for driving autonomously are in the chassis. With this design, the robot can be adapted to deliver a large variety of packages and goods. The vision is a future where the city streets are no longer occupied by large freight trucks, sprinter vans and delivery trucks. A future where the city belongs to the people.

HUGO is an autonomous last mile delivery robot that will travel on sidewalks and in pedestrian zones at walking speed. They stand out from the competition through its modular design. The HUGO prototype is based on a modular design where all sensors for driving autonomously are in the chassis. With this design, the robot can be adapted to deliver a large variety of packages and goods. The vision is a future where the city streets are no longer occupied by large freight trucks, sprinter vans and delivery trucks. A future where the city belongs to the people.
Cake

Cake

Cake manufactures light, quiet and clean electric off-road performance motorbikes that combine excitement with responsibility. The development in electric drive trains has already changed much of what motorbiking used to be. Having derived from a passion for gravity sports, developing high-quality performance products and saluting respect and sustainability, the bikes are lighter, nearly silent, cleaner and have very few moving parts.

Cake manufactures light, quiet and clean electric off-road performance motorbikes that combine excitement with responsibility. The development in electric drive trains has already changed much of what motorbiking used to be. Having derived from a passion for gravity sports, developing high-quality performance products and saluting respect and sustainability, the bikes are lighter, nearly silent, cleaner and have very few moving parts.

Volvo and Uber

Volvo and Uber

Uber and Volvo Cars are set to deploy an updated fleet of self-driving SUVs for testing. The companies entered a joint engineering agreement in 2016 and have since developed several self-driving prototypes based on the
model XC90. Volvo manufactures the XC90s equipped with key safety features that allow Uber to install its own self-driving system. The steering and braking systems designed for computer control come with additional
backup steering and braking that will stop the vehicle if the primary controls fail. A range of sensors allows Uber’s system to safely maneuver in defined urban situations.

Uber and Volvo Cars are set to deploy an updated fleet of self-driving SUVs for testing. The companies entered a joint engineering agreement in 2016 and have since developed several self-driving prototypes based on the
model XC90. Volvo manufactures the XC90s equipped with key safety features that allow Uber to install its own self-driving system. The steering and braking systems designed for computer control come with additional
backup steering and braking that will stop the vehicle if the primary controls fail. A range of sensors allows Uber’s system to safely maneuver in defined urban situations.
Drive Sweden

Drive Sweden

For years, the privately-owned car has been a cornerstone for personal mobility, but we are entering a new era. Connected, driverless and shared vehicles are important building blocks as we reinvent the meaning of mobility. The aim of the strategic innovation program Drive Sweden is to create a transport system that ensures a socioeconomically efficient and long-term sustainable transport supply for citizens and businesses in Sweden. During its first three years of operation, Drive Sweden has attracted about 80 partners: 25 percent are headquartered outside of Sweden and 20 percent are start-ups.

For years, the privately-owned car has been a cornerstone for personal mobility, but we are entering a new era. Connected, driverless and shared vehicles are important building blocks as we reinvent the meaning of mobility. The aim of the strategic innovation program Drive Sweden is to create a transport system that ensures a socioeconomically efficient and long-term sustainable transport supply for citizens and businesses in Sweden. During its first three years of operation, Drive Sweden has attracted about 80 partners: 25 percent are headquartered outside of Sweden and 20 percent are start-ups.

Everdrone

Everdrone

Swedish drone developer Everdrone is specialized in creating world-leading technology and overcoming regulatory challenges related to autonomous drone operations within the healthcare and emergency response sector. Everdrone is now investigating the possibilities of carrying out emergency deliveries of medicine and medical equipment to patients affected by life- threatening health conditions. In cooperation with Sweden’s national emergency dispatch organization, SOS Alarm AB, the long-term aim is to carry out life-saving flight operations.

Swedish drone developer Everdrone is specialized in creating world-leading technology and overcoming regulatory challenges related to autonomous drone operations within the healthcare and emergency response sector. Everdrone is now investigating the possibilities of carrying out emergency deliveries of medicine and medical equipment to patients affected by life- threatening health conditions. In cooperation with Sweden’s national emergency dispatch organization, SOS Alarm AB, the long-term aim is to carry out life-saving flight operations.
Viscando

Viscando

Viscando OTUS3D system helps cities get objective and quantitative traffic knowledge. It automatically detects all traffic simultaneously: pedestrians, bicyclists and road vehicles. Using 3D and AI, the system counts traffic with high accuracy but also measures how road users behave and interact with each other. All data is automatically and instantly available digitally. The detailed and precise insights on mobility and conflict risks simplifies the day-to-day work not only for engineers and traffic planners in public road authorities, but also city developers and property owners. Viscando contributes to safer traffic and more sustainable, smart cities.

Viscando OTUS3D system helps cities get objective and quantitative traffic knowledge. It automatically detects all traffic simultaneously: pedestrians, bicyclists and road vehicles. Using 3D and AI, the system counts traffic with high accuracy but also measures how road users behave and interact with each other. All data is automatically and instantly available digitally. The detailed and precise insights on mobility and conflict risks simplifies the day-to-day work not only for engineers and traffic planners in public road authorities, but also city developers and property owners. Viscando contributes to safer traffic and more sustainable, smart cities.

Viscando

Viscando

The Train Brain is an algorithm used to forecast delays in public transport. It takes all the information generated in a rail network — every train, event and delay — and compares it to patterns of historical data. This forecasting model can predict delays hours before they happen. The Train Brain knows when a train is late and forecasts the risk of further delays across the entire network. The Train Brain automates real time decision-making to give commuters an alert while there still is time to arrange for an alternative mode of transportation. A friendly flamingo flashes every time a delayed train causes another delay – and the screen displays the reason.
 

The Train Brain is an algorithm used to forecast delays in public transport. It takes all the information generated in a rail network — every train, event and delay — and compares it to patterns of historical data. This forecasting model can predict delays hours before they happen. The Train Brain knows when a train is late and forecasts the risk of further delays across the entire network. The Train Brain automates real time decision-making to give commuters an alert while there still is time to arrange for an alternative mode of transportation. A friendly flamingo flashes every time a delayed train causes another delay – and the screen displays the reason.
 
Three-Point Safety Belt

Three-Point Safety Belt

Few people have saved as many lives as Volvo engineer Nils Bohlin who introduced his three-point seat belts into the series production of Volvo cars in 1959. There were different types of seat belts in the past, both two-point and three-point. The problem was that they did not protect their users sufficiently effective, especially at high speeds. Volvo Cars waived its patent rights so everybody could benefit, and the three-point seat belt is the most important safety innovation in the more than 120-year history of motoring.
 

Few people have saved as many lives as Volvo engineer Nils Bohlin who introduced his three-point seat belts into the series production of Volvo cars in 1959. There were different types of seat belts in the past, both two-point and three-point. The problem was that they did not protect their users sufficiently effective, especially at high speeds. Volvo Cars waived its patent rights so everybody could benefit, and the three-point seat belt is the most important safety innovation in the more than 120-year history of motoring.
 

Urban ICT Arena

Urban ICT Arena

Urban ICT Arena is part of Kista Science City in Stockholm. It is an arena for creating, testing and showing the digital solutions for tomorrow’s sustainable cities. Smart digital solutions are at the heart of making our cities more sustainable and reaching the Sustainable Development Goals. Together with partners from some of Sweden’s most innovative companies, academia and the public sector, we work to overcome tomorrow’s challenges – today. Here you can join our community of innovators and enablers to test, show and collaborate on your next product or service in a real urban environment.

Urban ICT Arena is part of Kista Science City in Stockholm. It is an arena for creating, testing and showing the digital solutions for tomorrow’s sustainable cities. Smart digital solutions are at the heart of making our cities more sustainable and reaching the Sustainable Development Goals. Together with partners from some of Sweden’s most innovative companies, academia and the public sector, we work to overcome tomorrow’s challenges – today. Here you can join our community of innovators and enablers to test, show and collaborate on your next product or service in a real urban environment.
Norrsidan Innovation

Norrsidan Innovation

Most garbage cans are emptied according to a time schedule. This creates a lot of unnecessary driving for garbage trucks that need to check every container in its district. Some might be empty, and some might be overfull. Norrsidan Innovation solves this problem by using smart sensors that report on the amount of trash. The adjacent garbage can be fitted with a smart sensor from Norrsidans Innovation in cooperation with Vestre.

Most garbage cans are emptied according to a time schedule. This creates a lot of unnecessary driving for garbage trucks that need to check every container in its district. Some might be empty, and some might be overfull. Norrsidan Innovation solves this problem by using smart sensors that report on the amount of trash. The adjacent garbage can be fitted with a smart sensor from Norrsidans Innovation in cooperation with Vestre.

Bumbee Labs AB

Bumbee Labs AB

Bumbee Labs is a disruptive startup in Deep Tech with location based services to provide footfall data based on Wi-Fi technology. By collecting a lot of location data, using machine learning and AI together with a unique statistical method. it provides new insights of people movement in urban areas, shopping malls, airports etc. By helping public transport agencies and city managers, Bumbee Labs AB is able to create smarter societies that can reach their full potential through mobility optimization, ultimately benefiting both organizations and commuters alike. The method and data are officially approved by the Swedish Data Protection Authority which make them very unique.

Bumbee Labs AB is a partner to Urban ICT Arena.

Bumbee Labs is a disruptive startup in Deep Tech with location based services to provide footfall data based on Wi-Fi technology. By collecting a lot of location data, using machine learning and AI together with a unique statistical method. it provides new insights of people movement in urban areas, shopping malls, airports etc. By helping public transport agencies and city managers, Bumbee Labs AB is able to create smarter societies that can reach their full potential through mobility optimization, ultimately benefiting both organizations and commuters alike. The method and data are officially approved by the Swedish Data Protection Authority which make them very unique.

Bumbee Labs AB is a partner to Urban ICT Arena.
Actibump

Actibump

Edeva AB manufactures and sells the Actibump system, which is an active speed bump that is only a speed bump for those who speed. The point of this is to let everyone driving at the right speed pass without discomfort. If the driver is speeding, a hatch, integrated into the road surface, lowers. This creates a dent in the road and gives the speeding driver a physical reminder of the speed limit. The effects have been great! There are currently Actibumps installed in Sweden, Australia, Norway and Iceland and more countries are installing soon.

Edeva AB is a partner to Urban ICT Arena

Edeva AB manufactures and sells the Actibump system, which is an active speed bump that is only a speed bump for those who speed. The point of this is to let everyone driving at the right speed pass without discomfort. If the driver is speeding, a hatch, integrated into the road surface, lowers. This creates a dent in the road and gives the speeding driver a physical reminder of the speed limit. The effects have been great! There are currently Actibumps installed in Sweden, Australia, Norway and Iceland and more countries are installing soon.

Edeva AB is a partner to Urban ICT Arena

Univrses AB

Univrses AB

The world is becoming urbanized. People are moving from rural to urban centers at a rate of 1.3 million per week. 65% of the world’s population will live in cities by 2050. Capturing timely, relevant and actionable data about the urban environment is crucial for cities to keep functioning. To meet this need, Univrses is developing a gamechanging platform called 3DAI City by deploying camera units on public vehicles operating in the city. The images are processed by Univrses’ proprietary algorithms to derive meaningful data relevant to the successful functioning of the city. Live information is presented in a clear, simple and intuitive way.
 
Univrses AB is a partner to Urban ICT Arena.

The world is becoming urbanized. People are moving from rural to urban centers at a rate of 1.3 million per week. 65% of the world’s population will live in cities by 2050. Capturing timely, relevant and actionable data about the urban environment is crucial for cities to keep functioning. To meet this need, Univrses is developing a gamechanging platform called 3DAI City by deploying camera units on public vehicles operating in the city. The images are processed by Univrses’ proprietary algorithms to derive meaningful data relevant to the successful functioning of the city. Live information is presented in a clear, simple and intuitive way.
 
Univrses AB is a partner to Urban ICT Arena.

The Road to Sustainable Mobility

Moving towards socio-economically efficient and long-term sustainable transportation will require several parallel approaches. We must come up with solutions for our roads as well as for air traffic and international shipping.

Electrification, automation and sharing are all important stepping-stones as we reinvent the meaning of mobility. Electric cars and their charging stations are now a common sight. But powering heavy transport with electricity might require some form of electric highways, also known as Elways. Sweden is currently testing two forms of conductive technologies: overhead lines and road-based conductors. For decades, the privately-owned car has been a cornerstone for personal mobility. There are currently 480 cars per 1,000 people in Sweden (compared to 840 in the United States). The effect of electrifying the entire fleet would, of course, be substantial. But if we also reduce the number of cars by moving from product to service, and from private ownership to shared mobility, the impact would be even greater.

Mobility as a service solutions will ideally include public transport, car rental, carsharing, taxi and bikes – depending on the subscriber’s needs. The service is available to travelers in Stockholm through start-up company Ubigo. Electrification has also helped bikes take on a bigger role in mobility. Cargo bikes, such as the Armadillo, help solve urban delivery issues; modular bikes, such as the Walleräng, give more freedom for personal transportation; and terrain bikes, such as the Cake, opens the Swedish wilderness to emissions-free high-adrenaline off-roading. From all-electric racing and off-roading to fully automated electric timber trucks, the future of mobility is anything but dull.

Inzile

Inzile

Inzile was founded in 2012 by three entrepreneurs with a strong desire to change the work vehicle sector. The vehicles — currently the two models Pro4 Work and Pro 4 Van — represent a fossil-free, modular transport and service solution developed to allow heavy construction and logistics in urban areas. The Pro4 light truck has the characteristics of the large truck. Thanks to its small format, it’s easy to use for work and distribution in cities, residential and industrial areas, and loads up to one metric ton.

Inzile was founded in 2012 by three entrepreneurs with a strong desire to change the work vehicle sector. The vehicles — currently the two models Pro4 Work and Pro 4 Van — represent a fossil-free, modular transport and service solution developed to allow heavy construction and logistics in urban areas. The Pro4 light truck has the characteristics of the large truck. Thanks to its small format, it’s easy to use for work and distribution in cities, residential and industrial areas, and loads up to one metric ton.
Velove

Velove

Velove works to improve city logistics through an electric cargo bike and a containerization system. The Armadillo cargo cycle offers ultra-efficient transport solutions that replaces vans and cars being used for last mile deliveries. Its size makes it drivable on bike paths without causing problems for cyclists. The bike only uses 6% of the electricity needed by a small electric van when doing the same deliveries, and only uses 7% of the material resources of a small van when produced.

Velove works to improve city logistics through an electric cargo bike and a containerization system. The Armadillo cargo cycle offers ultra-efficient transport solutions that replaces vans and cars being used for last mile deliveries. Its size makes it drivable on bike paths without causing problems for cyclists. The bike only uses 6% of the electricity needed by a small electric van when doing the same deliveries, and only uses 7% of the material resources of a small van when produced.

Einride

Einride

Einride is an Autonomous Electric Transport (AET) solution that consists of an intelligent shipping platform and autonomous, all-electric transport vehicles, so-called Pods. The Pods are equipped with specialized modular trailers for pallets, timber, perishable goods and anything else you need to ship. They are coordinated by an intelligent routing software that integrates customer data, traffic data and so on to optimize delivery time, battery life and energy consumption. The company sets out to make the movement of goods more intelligent: emission-free, safe, cost-effective and sustainable. Einride’s AET system has the potential to reduce CO2 emissions by 90% and operating costs by up to 60%.

Einride is an Autonomous Electric Transport (AET) solution that consists of an intelligent shipping platform and autonomous, all-electric transport vehicles, so-called Pods. The Pods are equipped with specialized modular trailers for pallets, timber, perishable goods and anything else you need to ship. They are coordinated by an intelligent routing software that integrates customer data, traffic data and so on to optimize delivery time, battery life and energy consumption. The company sets out to make the movement of goods more intelligent: emission-free, safe, cost-effective and sustainable. Einride’s AET system has the potential to reduce CO2 emissions by 90% and operating costs by up to 60%.
Volvo Trucks

Volvo Trucks

In 2018, Volvo introduced their first all-electric trucks – the Volvo FL Electric and the Volvo FE Electric. Electrification is a natural next step for a company that has seen environmental care as a core value since the 1970s. Since then, air pollutants from Volvo trucks have been reduced by up to 90%, and fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 40%. In parallel with electrification, Volvo Trucks also use hybrid technology and alternative fuels, such as liquified natural gas.

In 2018, Volvo introduced their first all-electric trucks – the Volvo FL Electric and the Volvo FE Electric. Electrification is a natural next step for a company that has seen environmental care as a core value since the 1970s. Since then, air pollutants from Volvo trucks have been reduced by up to 90%, and fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 40%. In parallel with electrification, Volvo Trucks also use hybrid technology and alternative fuels, such as liquified natural gas.

Swedish smart car parked along city street.
Uniti

Uniti

Uniti’s light-weight electric city cars are made from composite materials and optimized for energy and resource efficiency, safety and manufacturing scalability. Uniti started as an open innovation research project at Lund University that focused on finding ways to improve the societal and environmental impact of mobility. The first deliveries of the Uniti One are planned for mid-2020. With a range of 190 miles, the car seats three, with the driver alone and central at the front and two passenger seats in the rear.

Uniti’s light-weight electric city cars are made from composite materials and optimized for energy and resource efficiency, safety and manufacturing scalability. Uniti started as an open innovation research project at Lund University that focused on finding ways to improve the societal and environmental impact of mobility. The first deliveries of the Uniti One are planned for mid-2020. With a range of 190 miles, the car seats three, with the driver alone and central at the front and two passenger seats in the rear.
The Worlds First Electric Highway

The Worlds First Electric Highway

In the heartland of Sweden, you will find the world’s first stretch of electric public road for heavy trucks. The trials began in June 2016. If the results are positive, we are likely to see larger transport routes all over Sweden becoming electrified. E16 Sandviken is a 1.2 miles stretch of freeway that is lined with poles that support overhead electric cables. When the trucks pass under the cables, a so-called pantograph connects to the truck and automatically injects power to the system. If there is no electricity to connect to, the vehicle is powered by its usual engine.

In the heartland of Sweden, you will find the world’s first stretch of electric public road for heavy trucks. The trials began in June 2016. If the results are positive, we are likely to see larger transport routes all over Sweden becoming electrified. E16 Sandviken is a 1.2 miles stretch of freeway that is lined with poles that support overhead electric cables. When the trucks pass under the cables, a so-called pantograph connects to the truck and automatically injects power to the system. If there is no electricity to connect to, the vehicle is powered by its usual engine.

Lambda Sond

Lambda Sond

A lambda sensor is an electronic device that measures the proportion of oxygen in a gas or liquid. Volvo became the first automobile manufacturer to employ this technology in 1976. Their Lambda Sond meant a reduction of harmful exhaust emissions by 90%. And nearly 40 years on, virtually every car with a gasoline engine has a Lambda Sond fitted.

A lambda sensor is an electronic device that measures the proportion of oxygen in a gas or liquid. Volvo became the first automobile manufacturer to employ this technology in 1976. Their Lambda Sond meant a reduction of harmful exhaust emissions by 90%. And nearly 40 years on, virtually every car with a gasoline engine has a Lambda Sond fitted.
Urskog

Urskog

Urskog is a modern Swedish riding concept returning to one of our oldest materials: wood. The naked wood makes each board unique like the tree rings of the surface. Urskog is always made in Sweden out of responsibly harvested veneers. The wood represents a reflection of the past, while the boards represent a sustainable and fun way for people to move around.

Urskog is a modern Swedish riding concept returning to one of our oldest materials: wood. The naked wood makes each board unique like the tree rings of the surface. Urskog is always made in Sweden out of responsibly harvested veneers. The wood represents a reflection of the past, while the boards represent a sustainable and fun way for people to move around.

Walleräng

Walleräng

Walleräng manufactures hand-made modular electric bikes in Sweden. The electrification of a modular cargo system allows you to transport not only yourself, but also the things you need at different times. Nearly all prefabricated bikes come equipped with predetermined components while the Walleräng flexible system tenders to a long list of transportation needs. For when you go to the store, a bag that carries your groceries and fits perfectly on your rear carrier. Or for your commute to work, strap on the front carrier that secures your laptop or handbag.

Walleräng manufactures hand-made modular electric bikes in Sweden. The electrification of a modular cargo system allows you to transport not only yourself, but also the things you need at different times. Nearly all prefabricated bikes come equipped with predetermined components while the Walleräng flexible system tenders to a long list of transportation needs. For when you go to the store, a bag that carries your groceries and fits perfectly on your rear carrier. Or for your commute to work, strap on the front carrier that secures your laptop or handbag.

Vision Zero

Vision Zero is a Swedish transport safety model from the mid-1990s that has been adopted by, among others, the European Union, the United Nations and several U.S. states and cities. A core principle is that life and health can never be exchanged for other benefits in society. The basic starting point is the ethical standpoint that no one should be killed or suffer lifelong disability due to a road accident.

Vision Zero is largely based on changing people’s behavior with the help of engineering solutions. Examples include alcolocks on cars, median barriers on highways and speed management solutions such as road cameras. Onboard intelligent speed adaptation systems, that warn whenever the speed limit is exceeded by the driver, are also becoming more advanced. Even before Vision Zero, Sweden was considered a road safety role model thanks to a low number of fatalities, one of the world’s first road safety authorities and corporate innovations. Sweden’s top auto manufacturer Volvo has, for instance, become synonymous with road safety worldwide.

Traffic Timeline

1906

The first regulation concerning traffic with automobiles is passed. During the same year, the first driving license is issued.

1906
The first regulation concerning traffic with automobiles is passed. During the same year, the first driving license is issued.
1966
The compulsory safety inspection of cars is introduced.
1990
Airbags fitted as standard for several car makers.
1911
There are approximately 1,000 passenger cars in Sweden. During this year, there are 148 fatal accidents.
1967
The conversion to right-hand traffic.
1997
The launch of a Europe-wide road safety collaboration, with the aim of achieving safer cars, a safer traffic environment and fewer accidents.
1920
The first road signs are introduced.
1975
Law requiring seat belts for front seats.
1997
Vision Zero policy introduced by the government – the longterm objective is that not a single person should be seriously injured or killed in road traffic in Sweden.
1934
The government sets up the National Society for Road Safety (NTF).
1980
Law requiring seat belts for rear seats for all passengers over 15 years of age.
2019
There are approximately 5,000,000 cars in Sweden. During this year, there are 223 fatal accidents.
1959
The first patent for a three-point seat belt in Sweden.
1988
Law requiring everybody in the car to wear a seat belt – including children.
2050
Future scenario of self-driving cars on the roads.
Sources: National Society for Road Safety, The Swedish Transport Administration, Statistics Sweden

But it’s about more than road safety. Sea Traffic Management (STM) is a Swedish initiative that connects the maritime world in real time. Through automated data exchange between ships, service providers, ports and shipping companies, STM allows ship crews to focus wholeheartedly on safe navigation rather than on reporting.

For inventions to become mainstream, people must first accept these technologies. At the KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, a project called Automated Vehicle Traffic Control Tower is investigating the effects of a control tower on automated vehicles, on traffic management of commercially operated fleets and on public transport. The aim is to provide automated vehicles with the support required to increase safety and trust.

Rearward-Facing Child Safety Seat

Rearward-Facing Child Safety Seat

In 1972, Swedish car manufacturer Volvo took inspiration from astronauts lying on their backs during take-off to even out gravitational forces. They used that basic principle to develop the first rearward-facing child seats. The chairs help distribute the power over a larger area in a frontal collision — the most common and often the most serious type of collision. This groundbreaking work began as early as 1964 with the first prototype. New developments to further improve the child seat keep coming from this Swedish safety icon.

In 1972, Swedish car manufacturer Volvo took inspiration from astronauts lying on their backs during take-off to even out gravitational forces. They used that basic principle to develop the first rearward-facing child seats. The chairs help distribute the power over a larger area in a frontal collision — the most common and often the most serious type of collision. This groundbreaking work began as early as 1964 with the first prototype. New developments to further improve the child seat keep coming from this Swedish safety icon.
Sensys Gatso

Sensys Gatso

Sensys Gatso’s advanced traffic safety technologies can be used to track vehicle speeds, traffic volume, pollution and noise. Primarily used for automatic traffic enforcement, their systems are also used to monitor and enforce low-emission zones in urban areas, as well as highway congestion management. Their traffic enforcement platform Puls is an intelligent, compatible and incorruptible data analytics platform that collects data and sends it to government institutions for enforcement and control purposes. Puls takes input from camera systems and other data sources, correlates events and can apply diverse logic to detect events of interest in real-time.

Sensys Gatso’s advanced traffic safety technologies can be used to track vehicle speeds, traffic volume, pollution and noise. Primarily used for automatic traffic enforcement, their systems are also used to monitor and enforce low-emission zones in urban areas, as well as highway congestion management. Their traffic enforcement platform Puls is an intelligent, compatible and incorruptible data analytics platform that collects data and sends it to government institutions for enforcement and control purposes. Puls takes input from camera systems and other data sources, correlates events and can apply diverse logic to detect events of interest in real-time.

Hövding

Hövding

The world’s safest bicycle helmet isn’t even a helmet. The Hövding 3 is an airbag for cyclists that is worn around the neck like a collar. Sensors inside the collar read the cyclist’s movement pattern 200 times per second. In the event of an accident, the airbag inflates in 0.1 seconds around the head and neck like a protective hood. Hövding’s airbag technology protects up to eight times better than traditional bicycle helmets.

The world’s safest bicycle helmet isn’t even a helmet. The Hövding 3 is an airbag for cyclists that is worn around the neck like a collar. Sensors inside the collar read the cyclist’s movement pattern 200 times per second. In the event of an accident, the airbag inflates in 0.1 seconds around the head and neck like a protective hood. Hövding’s airbag technology protects up to eight times better than traditional bicycle helmets.
Senseair

Senseair

Senseair is a leading global provider of air and gas sensing technology. Senseair – working in partnership with the Automotive Coalition for Traffic Safety, a U.S. non-profit representing the leading automobile manufacturers, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – has developed the next generation of alcohol detection sensor that allows for contact-free, unobtrusive measurement of alcohol levels from breath. The sensor is designed for use in multiple applications, including planes, trains and automobiles. Displayed here is the Senseair Wall, an indoor device adapted for daily testing of staff responsible for critical safety operations.

Senseair is a leading global provider of air and gas sensing technology. Senseair – working in partnership with the Automotive Coalition for Traffic Safety, a U.S. non-profit representing the leading automobile manufacturers, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – has developed the next generation of alcohol detection sensor that allows for contact-free, unobtrusive measurement of alcohol levels from breath. The sensor is designed for use in multiple applications, including planes, trains and automobiles. Displayed here is the Senseair Wall, an indoor device adapted for daily testing of staff responsible for critical safety operations.

Natalia Project

Natalia Project

Natalia Project is a worldwide security alarm system for human rights defenders at risk, allowing them to move and do their work more freely with confidence that the world is watching. The alarm system was launched in 2013 by the Sweden-based human rights organization Civil Rights Defenders. Once activated, a distress signal, including a GPS location, is sent to the Civil Rights Defenders headquarters in Stockholm, setting in motion a response protocol developed specifically for the local circumstances. The ability to act quickly can be the difference between life and death. More than 160 human rights defenders are included in the Natalia Project.
 

Natalia Project is a worldwide security alarm system for human rights defenders at risk, allowing them to move and do their work more freely with confidence that the world is watching. The alarm system was launched in 2013 by the Sweden-based human rights organization Civil Rights Defenders. Once activated, a distress signal, including a GPS location, is sent to the Civil Rights Defenders headquarters in Stockholm, setting in motion a response protocol developed specifically for the local circumstances. The ability to act quickly can be the difference between life and death. More than 160 human rights defenders are included in the Natalia Project.
 

Accessible Mobility

Having the possibility to move without hindrance is of vital importance to all people. All citizens should be able to work, study and take part in community activities on equal terms. In 2014, Sweden’s discrimination laws were extended to include inaccessibility, where mobility plays a major role.

Accessibility impacts how sidewalks, bus stops, buildings, roads, trains and so forth are designed; hence, Sweden’s disability policy calls for accessibility to permeate all planning at national, regional and local level. All new government procurements of vehicles have requirements on accessibility and usability.

It’s also up to private actors to make their products accessible to as many people as possible. Solutions can be as simple as anti-slip guards for your shoes or as complex as assisted living solutions based on eye-tracking technology. Swedish Tobii Dynavox empowers people with disabilities to communicate and live more independent lives through world-leading eye-tracking and touch-based communication devices and software. Tactile flooring to guide the visually impaired, shower chairs for the elderly, Permobil electric wheelchairs for the disabled, baby carriers for new parents or rehabilitation walkers for someone who has sustained an injury: Sweden’s innovative history is filled with examples of how to think outside of the norm.

The right to mobility also manifests in other forms. Sweden’s constitutionally guaranteed right of public access (Allemansrätten) gives everyone the right to enjoy Sweden’s nature. In Sweden, you won’t see signs with “Keep out. Private property.” They are made redundant by a commonly known aphorism: “Don’t disturb, don’t destroy.”

Let’s Fly

Let’s Fly

TrustCare is a world-leading innovator of aid equipment for the elderly, aiming to improve the aging process for people and help younger disabled people enjoy a better quality of life. Their Let’s Fly outdoor rollator made of solid cast aluminum is one of the leading walkers in the world in terms of design and functionality. With ergonomically designed handles, large front wheels that make it easy to get over curbs and rear wheels with built-in suspension, the Let’s Fly guarantees a smooth walking experience.

TrustCare is a world-leading innovator of aid equipment for the elderly, aiming to improve the aging process for people and help younger disabled people enjoy a better quality of life. Their Let’s Fly outdoor rollator made of solid cast aluminum is one of the leading walkers in the world in terms of design and functionality. With ergonomically designed handles, large front wheels that make it easy to get over curbs and rear wheels with built-in suspension, the Let’s Fly guarantees a smooth walking experience.
Safety Reflector

Safety Reflector

If you walk along a street at night, you’ll only become visible to car drivers within less than 100 feet, not enough for them to react and veer away. Using something reflective is a cheap and easy way to decrease the risk of an accident. Wearing a safety reflector, you’ll give the driver of the car over 400 feet to brake and slow to a stop.

This space was created in collaboration with If P&C Insurance Company.

If you walk along a street at night, you’ll only become visible to car drivers within less than 100 feet, not enough for them to react and veer away. Using something reflective is a cheap and easy way to decrease the risk of an accident. Wearing a safety reflector, you’ll give the driver of the car over 400 feet to brake and slow to a stop.

This space was created in collaboration with If P&C Insurance Company.

Permobil

Permobil

Permobil is globally known for its power and manual wheelchairs, power assist devices and seating and positioning solutions. Their products offer people with disabilities the opportunity to express themselves, lead independent lives and take part in the world around them. Permobil’s journey started in the 1960s when Doctor Per Uddén had a vision and commitment to provide innovative technology solutions so the physically challenged could live full lives. This commitment still drives the company to push the boundaries of design and technology in pursuit of innovations that help improve the quality of life for the people who use their products.

Permobil is globally known for its power and manual wheelchairs, power assist devices and seating and positioning solutions. Their products offer people with disabilities the opportunity to express themselves, lead independent lives and take part in the world around them. Permobil’s journey started in the 1960s when Doctor Per Uddén had a vision and commitment to provide innovative technology solutions so the physically challenged could live full lives. This commitment still drives the company to push the boundaries of design and technology in pursuit of innovations that help improve the quality of life for the people who use their products.
Panthera X

Panthera X

Panthera AB is a Swedish company that designs, manufactures and sells active wheelchairs for adults and children, focusing on userfriendliness, quality and low weight. The design is based on making wheelchairs that enable the user to be as active, mobile and independent as possible. The Panthera X is an extremely maneuverable and finely balanced wheelchair designed for people with very active lifestyles, including professional athletes. The chassis and back rest frames are made in carbon fiber, making it by far the lightest wheelchair in the world, with a transport weight of under 5 lbs.

Panthera AB is a Swedish company that designs, manufactures and sells active wheelchairs for adults and children, focusing on userfriendliness, quality and low weight. The design is based on making wheelchairs that enable the user to be as active, mobile and independent as possible. The Panthera X is an extremely maneuverable and finely balanced wheelchair designed for people with very active lifestyles, including professional athletes. The chassis and back rest frames are made in carbon fiber, making it by far the lightest wheelchair in the world, with a transport weight of under 5 lbs.

Prisma Daps

Prisma Daps

Prisma Daps is one of the most advanced pedestrian signal systems with everything from spoken message playback to anti-graffiti features. Developed in collaboration with visually and functionally impaired people, the products are useful for every pedestrian and for all traffic environments. The settings of the Daps can be modified using a simple mobile app.

Prisma Daps is one of the most advanced pedestrian signal systems with everything from spoken message playback to anti-graffiti features. Developed in collaboration with visually and functionally impaired people, the products are useful for every pedestrian and for all traffic environments. The settings of the Daps can be modified using a simple mobile app.
Najell

Najell

Najell develops innovative baby products for parents who choose to live an individualistic lifestyle when entering parenthood. Najell was born out of a need to remain active with a sleeping baby without waking it up. The result was the SleepCarrier. Other products include the WRAP, an all-in-one solution that combines the closeness of a wrap with the simplicity of a baby carrier. The well thought out details make it childishly easy to get the baby up on the chest and have your hands free for everything else.

Najell develops innovative baby products for parents who choose to live an individualistic lifestyle when entering parenthood. Najell was born out of a need to remain active with a sleeping baby without waking it up. The result was the SleepCarrier. Other products include the WRAP, an all-in-one solution that combines the closeness of a wrap with the simplicity of a baby carrier. The well thought out details make it childishly easy to get the baby up on the chest and have your hands free for everything else.

Museum of Failure

The Museum of Failure is a collection of failed products and services from around the world. Most of all innovation projects fail, and the museum showcases these missteps to provide visitors with a fascinating learning experience.

Every item provides unique insight into the risky business of innovation. Innovation and progress require accepting the risk of failure. The museum aims to stimulate productive discussion about failure and inspire us to take meaningful risks. The museum is curated by Dr. Samuel West, licensed psychologist, PhD in Organizational Psychology.​

www.museumoffailure.com

Itera (1981 - 1985)

Itera (1981 - 1985)

The Itera plastic bicycle generated a fair amount of press during its short lifespan in the early 1980s. Expected to revolutionize the bicycle industry, the Itera was launched with slogans such as “We’re pedaling out of the Iron Age!” and “The eternal machine — made of the same material as spaceships.” However, the plastic construction was not sturdy enough, which caused the bike to wobble. The bicycle also ended up costing twice as much as planned to manufacture. Piles of unsold bikes were buried.

The Itera plastic bicycle generated a fair amount of press during its short lifespan in the early 1980s. Expected to revolutionize the bicycle industry, the Itera was launched with slogans such as “We’re pedaling out of the Iron Age!” and “The eternal machine — made of the same material as spaceships.” However, the plastic construction was not sturdy enough, which caused the bike to wobble. The bicycle also ended up costing twice as much as planned to manufacture. Piles of unsold bikes were buried.
Pacemaker DJ (2008 - 2011)

Pacemaker DJ (2008 - 2011)

The Pacemaker DJ evoked thoughts of a device that would not only shock your heart but do so with a DJ’s beat no less. Alas, it was just a portable DJ device. The Pacemaker DJ could mix tracks and crossfade like any pair of decks. It even won an award for its bold design. But the $800 price tag could make any healthy person’s heart skip a beat. All of this came at a time when the world was turning to smartphone technology for all its DJ needs.

The Pacemaker DJ evoked thoughts of a device that would not only shock your heart but do so with a DJ’s beat no less. Alas, it was just a portable DJ device. The Pacemaker DJ could mix tracks and crossfade like any pair of decks. It even won an award for its bold design. But the $800 price tag could make any healthy person’s heart skip a beat. All of this came at a time when the world was turning to smartphone technology for all its DJ needs.

Ahlgrens bilar (1953 –)

Ahlgrens bilar (1953 –)

The Ahlgrens candy factory manager Gustav Belinky and his colleagues often experimented with new products. During the 1950s, he tried to develop a version of the American marshmallow. The marshmallows were too tough and chewy, and he thought that they had failed. But someone discovered that the failed batter tasted good. According to the story, the chewy candy was named “bilar” (Swedish for cars) because Belinky loved Bugatti race cars. Ahlgrens failed marshmallows became a huge success.

The Ahlgrens candy factory manager Gustav Belinky and his colleagues often experimented with new products. During the 1950s, he tried to develop a version of the American marshmallow. The marshmallows were too tough and chewy, and he thought that they had failed. But someone discovered that the failed batter tasted good. According to the story, the chewy candy was named “bilar” (Swedish for cars) because Belinky loved Bugatti race cars. Ahlgrens failed marshmallows became a huge success.
Bofors Toothpaste (1968 – 1971)

Bofors Toothpaste (1968 – 1971)

In the 1960s, Swedish weapons manufacturer Bofors tried to branch out and start making “peace products.” The Bofors toothpaste contained artificial sweeteners and microplastic beads as a mild abrasive. By 1971, unfounded rumors spread alleging the beads would remain in the body for months with catastrophic results. The weapon manufacturer’s assurances that the toothpaste was safe did not help. The peaceful paste took a bullet and was carried off the field in 1971.

In the 1960s, Swedish weapons manufacturer Bofors tried to branch out and start making “peace products.” The Bofors toothpaste contained artificial sweeteners and microplastic beads as a mild abrasive. By 1971, unfounded rumors spread alleging the beads would remain in the body for months with catastrophic results. The weapon manufacturer’s assurances that the toothpaste was safe did not help. The peaceful paste took a bullet and was carried off the field in 1971.

Cash Card (1998 – 2004)

Cash Card (1998 – 2004)

In the late 1990s in Sweden, the cash card was introduced as a better way to pay than cash. A fast, easy and secure way to make purchases. The card, however, proved to be a hassle to use. Few stores accepted it, and it didn’t work to pay for calls or parking. And last but not least, the banks charged fees to both buyers and sellers.

In the late 1990s in Sweden, the cash card was introduced as a better way to pay than cash. A fast, easy and secure way to make purchases. The card, however, proved to be a hassle to use. Few stores accepted it, and it didn’t work to pay for calls or parking. And last but not least, the banks charged fees to both buyers and sellers.
Gizmondo (2005 – 2006)

Gizmondo (2005 – 2006)

The Gizmondo was a handheld gaming console partially developed in Sweden. Expectations were high due to its exciting new features and enthusiastic leadership. Millions were spent on promotion and the device was expected to compete against giants Nintendo and Sony. The Gizmondo launch party in London was “the biggest party the games industry had ever seen.” After a delayed launch, financial scandals and disappointing reviews, it ended up as a major sales failure. GamePro called it the worst selling handheld console in history.

The Gizmondo was a handheld gaming console partially developed in Sweden. Expectations were high due to its exciting new features and enthusiastic leadership. Millions were spent on promotion and the device was expected to compete against giants Nintendo and Sony. The Gizmondo launch party in London was “the biggest party the games industry had ever seen.” After a delayed launch, financial scandals and disappointing reviews, it ended up as a major sales failure. GamePro called it the worst selling handheld console in history.

Warship Vasa (1628)

Warship Vasa (1628)

Swedish warship Vasa was the world’s most high-tech warship when she set sail in 1628. However, the Vasa was dangerously top heavy and unstable. Despite this, she was impatiently ordered out to sea for her maiden voyage. As she was exiting the harbor, the wind picked up and the ship floundered. She sank in full view of a horrified public assembled to see off Europe’s most ambitious warship to date. Although Vasa didn’t work out so well, her influence lives on in infamy. Her design was copied for the “Black Pearl” in the Pirates of the Caribbean films.

Swedish warship Vasa was the world’s most high-tech warship when she set sail in 1628. However, the Vasa was dangerously top heavy and unstable. Despite this, she was impatiently ordered out to sea for her maiden voyage. As she was exiting the harbor, the wind picked up and the ship floundered. She sank in full view of a horrified public assembled to see off Europe’s most ambitious warship to date. Although Vasa didn’t work out so well, her influence lives on in infamy. Her design was copied for the “Black Pearl” in the Pirates of the Caribbean films.
Tetra Pak Rigello (1969 – 1980)

Tetra Pak Rigello (1969 – 1980)

Packaging giant Tetra Pak launched the Rigello plastic bottle as an alternative to existing metal and glass beverage containers. Its low weight and price made it an economical choice, and it was supposedly biodegradable. You could finish your drink and then toss the bottle into the nearest forest, river or beach — all the while knowing you were creating fertile mulch. As it turns out… the plastic wasn’t biodegradable, and old Rigello bottles can still be found in the forests of Sweden.

Packaging giant Tetra Pak launched the Rigello plastic bottle as an alternative to existing metal and glass beverage containers. Its low weight and price made it an economical choice, and it was supposedly biodegradable. You could finish your drink and then toss the bottle into the nearest forest, river or beach — all the while knowing you were creating fertile mulch. As it turns out… the plastic wasn’t biodegradable, and old Rigello bottles can still be found in the forests of Sweden.