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Gothenburg first out to introduce electric bookmobiles in Sweden

Thursday, August 27, 2020

Two new fully electric bookmobiles – the first of its kind in Sweden – are now being introduced in the City of Gothenburg. The two Volvo buses, ordered by the Cultural Affairs Administration, have a playful design inspired by the space, the sea and the forest to attract more people to take part of what the libraries offer. The bus model is one which has been used on the ElectriCity collaboration's demonstration arena route 55.

The new bookmobiles that are now being introduced are designed with different design themes that characterizes both the exterior and interior. The buses will visit about 40 bus stops and 130 preschools in Gothenburg.

"Finally we have book buses that can run within the environmental zone for a long time to come. And these are buses that invite children and families into a fairytale world that stimulates imagination, language and reading. That children have access to literature, that children can read with older people and eventually read by themselves is one of the most important factors for how they will manage in school. We are proud that Gothenburg is investing in reading", says Anette Eliasson, sector manager for libraries in Gothenburg.

"It feels great to get the confidence to deliver Sweden's first electric bookmobiles. The libraries in Gothenburg really show their amitions by investing in both new technology and an attractive and easily accessible design", says Jonas Pettersson, sales manager at Volvo Buses South.

The buses are Volvo's fully electric Volvo 7900 Electric, which provide a quiet and exhaust-free operation. A low floor in most of the bus and a wheelchair ramp make it easy for everyone to get on board. Kiitokori OY in Finland is responsible for decor and interior design. The buses are part of a complete, turnkey solution which means that Volvo Truck Center in Mölndal will take care of all maintenance of both vehicles and batteries for a fixed monthly cost.

Electric buses similar to these run on route 55 in Gothenburg, a demo arena within the ElectriCity collaboration.