Testkörare

Testkörare, often written as testkörare in Swedish, denotes a person who conducts test drives of vehicles or vehicle components to evaluate performance, handling, reliability, and comfort during development, validation, or media testing. The term is used primarily in Sweden and Swedish-language contexts, while the role is widely known in English as a test driver or professional test driver.

Responsibilities typically include following standardized test procedures, recording measurements and observations, and operating data-logging or instrumentation used to assess vehicle behavior. A testkörare works with engineers to report results and recommend improvements, and may drive on proving grounds, race tracks, or controlled sections of public roads. They assess factors such as acceleration, braking, steering response, ride quality, noise, vibration, ergonomics, fuel economy, and emissions, always prioritizing safety and compliance with regulations and confidentiality agreements.

Qualifications for a testkörare often include a valid driving license appropriate to the vehicle category, experience with performance driving or testing, and a solid understanding of vehicle systems and dynamics. Strong written and verbal communication skills are important to convey objective feedback. Many come from backgrounds in mechanical engineering, automotive technology, or related fields and may have training in data logging, instrumentation, and test safety protocols.

Work environments can vary from full-time development programs at automakers and suppliers to contract roles with testing organizations or media outlets. The position may involve irregular hours, travel, and collaboration with multiple teams to support vehicle development and evaluation.

See also: provkörning, testförare, automotive testing.