The emission-free buses are claimed to save about 80% energy, compared to equivalent diesel or gas buses, with the electricity being generated by Karlstad energy. Noise from the vehicle is also low.
Although smaller in size than Karlstad's conventional buses, the new Optare EVs have space for strollers, walkers and wheelchairs – and the new buses are equipped with air conditioning, free wifi and Bus TV.
"As the larger gas-fuelled buses were needed on the heavier lines, we saw an opportunity to use smaller buses on the centre lines," explains Mattias Bergh, head of Karlstadsbuss.
"Electric technology proved to be a viable and competitive alternative."
The buses will be charged overnight and get 15 minute fast charging every two hours during driver breaks.
The fast charging station is still under construction and is expected to be completed during next month (July), meaning that the new electric buses will be phased in during the summer.
"The electric buses are a little more expensive to buy, but this is offset by lower costs for operation, service and maintenance," comments Bengt Åström, president of Förenade buss.
"The drivers' experiences of the buses have been very positive and they have particularly highlighted how smooth and quiet the buses are."