What you can expect in the transport sector in 2025

Attention: New road traffic regulations will come into force from 2025. Automated driving is permitted under certain conditions in three scenarios, noise regulations have been made stricter and the regulations for low-speed vehicles have been standardized.

1. Avoidable noise pollution

The list of prohibited noise sources has been updated: With immediate effect, it is expressly prohibited to generate avoidable noise, in particular banging noises, through exhaust systems. Violations are subject to fines of up to CHF 10’000.- the amount of which is determined by the court on a case-by-case basis. Technical manipulation of vehicles remains prohibited. In addition, the existing fines for noise-related violations, such as leaving the engine running unnecessarily, have been increased from CHF 60.- to CHF 80.-.

2. Registration of new motorcycles

From January 1st, 2025, all motorcycles registered in Switzerland for the first time that were manufactured or imported in this year must meet the latest emissions standards (so-called “Euro 5+”). At the same time, stricter noise regulations will also apply to first-time registrations from this date. These changes will come into force at the same time as the new regulations come into force in the EU.

3. Autonomous driving

3.1 Highway pilot
From 2025, drivers will be allowed to use the so-called freeway pilot on freeways if their vehicle has an approved system. This will allow them to let go of the steering wheel and not have to constantly monitor the vehicle and the traffic, but they must be ready to take control at any time if the system so requires.

3.2 Driverless vehicles
Driverless vehicles may drive on specially authorized routes. However, they must be monitored by an operator at a control center.

3.3 Automated parking
In future, automated parking will be possible in designated and marked parking garages and parking spaces without the driver having to be present.

3.4 Approval of the automation system
Vehicles with automation systems require type approval in order to be allowed to drive. Vehicle manufacturers must prove that road safety and traffic flow are guaranteed while the system is in operation.

3.5 Outlook and future
To date, no vehicle manufacturer in Switzerland has applied for approval for an automation system. However, Astra would like to exploit the potential of automated driving quickly and hopes that manufacturers will now submit corresponding applications without delay.

4. Driving instruction

In future, the theoretical and practical driving test for obtaining a driver’s license for passenger cars and motorcycles will also test candidates’ knowledge of driver assistance and automation systems.

5. Vehicles for non-motorized traffic

The technical requirements and categorization of e-bikes will be adapted. In this way, the potential of e-bikes as family vehicles and for freight transport can be further improved. To this end, the category of heavy electric motorcycles (total weight up to 450 kg) will be created.

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