The Gothenburg congestion charging project – reportedly one of the largest of its kind globally – has reached a major milestone following the successful implementation of the first phase of its new multi-lane free-flow (MLFF) system.
Kapsch TrafficCom, the technology provider appointed by the Swedish Transport Administration (Trafikverket), is overseeing the replacement of 50 tolling stations and 91 charging points across the city.
The new system, which uses advanced vehicle identification technology, will cover Gothenburg’s entire city centre, enhancing traffic flow and ensuring accurate tolling decisions for the 150 million vehicles that are charged when driving through the city every year.
Once complete, the updated infrastructure is expected to raise around €90m annually – revenue that will be funnelled into local infrastructure projects.
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According to Trafikverket’s project manager, Thomas Lundgren, the system upgrade is proceeding according to plan.
“The reinvestment of our congestion charge system is progressing as expected and remains fully in line with our contract with Kapsch TrafficCom.
“The entire project is slated for completion by the first quarter of 2025,” he stated.
A key milestone was achieved in April 2024, with the successful completion of essential testing phases, including factory acceptance testing, system acceptance testing and operational acceptance testing.
Kapsch TrafficCom is already responsible for 66% of all tolled passages and 57% of charging points as of August 2024, with work continuing at the remaining sites across the city.
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To minimise disruptions for local drivers, installation work is being carried out mainly during non-tollable hours, such as nights, weekends, and public holidays.
This strategy ensures that Gothenburg continues to benefit from toll revenues while modernising its traffic infrastructure.
Beyond replacing outdated systems, the Gothenburg congestion charging project aims to modernise urban traffic management and reduce the environmental impact of congestion.
With long-term operations planned, the system is expected to play a key role in reducing emissions and improving the city’s traffic flow well into the next decade.
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