Road traffic: New regulations 2020
THAT'S WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW Whether it's further training for new drivers or the new energy label for passenger cars - since January 1, there have been some important changes all around the subject of road traffic For car drivers, the new year brings more than just the obligation to stick the freeway sticker on the inside of the windscreen. Since January 1 [...]
For car drivers, the new year brings more than just the obligation to stick the freeway sticker on the inside of the windscreen. Since January 1, 2020, there are also various new regulations and changes in force that have an impact on vehicle owners.
Mandatory further training
One change affects holders of probationary driver's licenses (FAP). Instead of two days as before, the mandatory further training now lasts only one day.
The course includes practical exercises. In addition, realistic driving situations are experienced, such as emergency braking and energy-efficient driving, which can also be practiced in simulators in the future.
Probationary period still three years
The continuing education must be attended within twelve months after the probationary driver's license has been issued. On the other hand, anyone who has taken the test by December 31, 2019, can attend today's Continuing Education Course 1 instead of the new Continuing Education Day.
In this case, further training must be completed within three years. The probationary period continues to be three years.
Target value of 95 grams of CO2
There will also be changes to the CO2 emission regulations for new passenger cars and vans. Passenger cars are now subject to a target value of 95 grams of CO2 per kilometer on average (previously: 130 grams), while vans and light semitrailers must comply with a target value of 147 grams of CO2 per kilometer for the first time. If the targets are missed, there is a threat of sanction payments for vehicle importers.
The target values and any penalty payments also apply to new cars imported by private individuals. To be noted: Before registration, small and private importers must have the CO2 emissions certified by the Federal Roads Office.
Calculation of the vehicle weight
The energy label for new cars has been modified. Visual and content adjustments have been made, and the methodology for classifying energy efficiency categories has been changed.
Thus, the vehicle weight is no longer taken into account in the calculation, with the result that smaller and lighter vehicles have a better category.
Relevant for motorists: The energy label enables energy- and environmentally-conscious car buying by dividing passenger cars into seven efficiency categories - from A for energy-efficient to G for comparatively inefficient vehicles. In addition, the energy label contains further information such as consumption or CO2 emissions.
Red vignette 2020 from 31 January
Last but not least, there are changes to the freeway toll sticker. As of January 1, 2020, the federal government has taken over some previously cantonal highways and freeways. These will be integrated into the national road network and are therefore subject to the vignette requirement.
The new, red 2020 vignette must be correctly affixed to the vehicle by January 31 at the latest.
