On 1 March 2025, new laws allowing the use of self-driving cars came into force in Switzerland. The only catch is that no self-driving vehicle has been approved for use on Swiss roads, reported RTS.
The new law makes it legal to use self-driving technology on specified stretches of roads specified by Switzerland’s cantons. At the same time the law requires drivers to be ready to intervene at any moment.
However, the biggest problem for those keen to let their vehicles ease the burden of driving in dense traffic, is that no vehicles with the required technology have yet been approved, according to the person responsible for the self-driving at the Federal Roads Office (FEDRO). Currently, no vehicle has been approved, said Patrizia Portmann.
The car manufacturing nation of Germany is ahead of Switzerland when it comes to self-driving. There, two car models have been approved. Something similar could happen in Switzerland too withing several months if car manufacturers were to apply for approval.
However, anyone letting their car drive for them in Switzerland currently would be taking a big risk, said Portmann. These systems are not yet capable of navigating road construction or accidents. For the time being, anyone caught relying on a self-driving systems risks being fined and losing their license. Even using self driving to park is not yet allowed. This requires approved parking zones, and these have not yet been designated.
More on this:
RTS article (in French) – Take a 5 minute French test now
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