In the spring of 2023, the Parliament approved a partial revision of the Road Traffic Act (SVG), thereby creating the framework conditions for automated driving.
The revision of the law will enable the swift introduction of current and future advancements in automated driving on Swiss roads.
The Federal Council has now specified the legal provisions in an ordinance.
The regulation on automated driving allows for three use cases:
1. Highway Pilots for Automated Vehicles
Drivers of automated vehicles on highways can now use a highway pilot.
When the highway pilot is activated, drivers can release the steering device and no longer need to constantly monitor the traffic or the vehicle.
However, they must remain ready to take control of the vehicle at any moment if requested by the automation system.
2. Driverless Vehicles on Designated Routes
The use of driverless vehicles on officially authorised routes is also permitted.
The approval of these routes is at the discretion of the cantons.
The Federal Roads Office (FEDRO) provides guidelines for assessing requested routes and forms a support group that cantons can consult.
Driverless vehicles must be monitored by an operator in a control centre.
If the vehicle encounters a situation it cannot handle independently, the system prompts the operator to suggest a manoeuvre.
The use of driverless vehicles could be particularly appealing for goods transport and “last mile” passenger transport.
3. Automated Parking Without Driver Presence
Automated parking without a driver present is now possible within designated and signposted parking areas.
Cantons or municipalities are responsible for determining suitable parking zones.
The responsible authority can rely on FEDRO’s guidelines or consult its support group to evaluate the suitability of proposed parking areas.
Both the regulation and the corresponding legal articles will come into effect on 1 March 2025.
Approval of Vehicles with Automation Systems
Vehicles with automation systems, like all other motor vehicles, require approval to be certified for road use.
Vehicle manufacturers must comprehensively demonstrate how road safety and traffic flow will be ensured during the operational life of an automation system.
Vehicles are authorised for road use by the cantons.
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