In the field of online used car marketplaces, Swedish startup Carla differentiates itself from competitors by allowing only full-electric cars and plug-in hybrids to be listed on the platform. Having established a presence in Sweden, the country has just secured an additional 19 million euros ($20 million) in fresh funding to propel it into the wider European market.
The funding was led by Bonnier Ventures, the Nordic-focused investment arm of Bonnier Group that focuses on fast-growing digital technology companies across multiple growth stages.
Other investors included Inbox Capital, Black Ice and VNV Global. To date, Carla has raised a total of 32 million euros ($33.7 million) in venture capital.
Founded in 2021 by Patrik Illerstig, formerly head of global online business at Volvo Cars, and Niklas Jungegård, a serial tech entrepreneur, Carla was launched to streamline the process of buying an electric vehicle while providing assurances to buyers.
Customers on the marketplace can pick up their new vehicle within 72 hours of purchase, safe in the knowledge that it has been battery tested and inspected to ensure optimal condition. Carla also provides a 12-month guarantee, financing options and a 14-day right of withdrawal.
“We are proud to be raising money from reputable investors, both existing and new – despite the current global and market situation,” Illerstig said. “It is reassuring that we, together with our investors, share the long-term vision of radically improving the experience of selling, acquiring and owning an electric car.”
Related: CarGurus Launches Digital Platform to Connect Dealers With Shoppers
In May, U.S.-based car selling digital platform CarGurus debuted CarGurus Digital Deal, allowing shoppers to create personalized deals that meet their budgetary needs through dealers’ listing pages.
Digital Deal is CarGurus’ latest offering after CarGurus Convert, a lead-based initiative which ended its 12-month pilot run earlier this spring.
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