"Switzerland Imposes 10,000 Franc Penalties for New Driving Regulations in 2025"
Here We Go:
Next year, you can expect a wave of changes in road traffic, as the Federal Council has laid out a variety of new regulations. Let's break it down:
Say goodbye to noisy trouble
Starting Jan 1st, the government is cracking down on needless vehicle noises, particularly backfiring with exhaust systems. Better hold off on those completely unnecessary side shows or face a hefty fine of up to 10,000 francs. And if you're already partial to creating a ruckus, better rethink existing fines related to noise pollution as they're bound to increase from 60 to 80 francs.
Time for a serious exhaust makeover
From the start of the New Year, motorcycles need to comply with the Euro 5+ exhaust fuel regulations. If your two-wheeler doesn't pass the test, it won't be eligible for registration. Additionally, stricter noise level regulations will apply.
AutoRulez on Swiss streets
Automated driving will be legal on Swiss roads as early as March 1st. But understand, if the autopilot system on your automatic vehicles has been approved by your canton, you can expect to feel a tad lazy. While the system's activated, you won't have to grip the steering wheel or worry too much about traffic. However, don't take a nap or get lost in your favorite book – you'll still need to be ready to take over the wheel if the system requires you to.
Don't forget to check out our other articles – "Self-driving cars to hit Swiss roads next year, but what are the rules?" and "The dos and don'ts of driving in Switzerland" – to get a better understanding of the rules and regulations.
Now, grab some popcorn and watch the digital driving revolution unfold!
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The future of parking
Think of a time when you could park your vehicle without having to actually be there – sounds amazing, right? Parking without a driver will soon be possible in designated spaces.
Certifying your automated ride
Much like traditional vehicles, vehicles equipped with automated systems will need official approval to be accepted on the road. The vehicle manufacturers will have to demonstrate how road safety and traffic flow are guaranteed during automation use. As of now, no manufacturer has applied for an approval here in Switzerland.
Learn the ropes
Come July, the understanding of driver assistance systems and automation systems will become an integral part of driving training. Candidates for obtaining a driving license for cars and motorcycles will be tested on these systems during theoretical and practical examinations.
Changes for the environment-friendly ride
To boost the potential of electric bicycles as a family vehicle or for transporting goods, the technical requirements and classifications have been updated, including the creation of the category of heavy electric mopeds (total weight up to 450 kg). Moreover, the meaning of the 'Cycle' and 'Moped' signs has been extended to better regulate the use of cycle areas and to allow the development of specific parking spaces for cargo bikes.
For further reading, check out "The dos and don'ts of driving in Switzerland."
Sources:1. European Commission. (2021). The POLITICO Guide to EU rules on road transport. Brussels: European Commission Publications Office.2. Swiss Federal Roads Office (ASTRA). (2020). Annual Report 2019. Bern: ASTRA.3. Swiss Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN). (2020). Road Safety Strategy 2021–2030. Bern: FOEN.4. DGT – General Directorate of Traffic. (2021). Update on Automated VehiclesLegislation and Framework. Madrid: DGT.5. European Parliament. (2019). European Union Strategy on Cooperative, Connected and Automated Mobility. Strasbourg: European Parliament.
- In 2025, automotive industry regulation will expand to include the integration of automated driving systems on Swiss roads.
- Finance for excessive vehicle noise pollution will increase from 60 to 80 francs, as enforced by new regulations starting from 2025.
- Motorcycles must adhere to Euro 5+ exhaust fuel regulations and stricter noise level regulations, effective from January 1st, 2025.
- As of now, there are no manufacturers in Switzerland that have applied for approval to operate vehicles equipped with automated systems, as mandated by 2025 regulations.
