What will change on Swiss roads in 2025?
New year, new luck, but also new rules for road users: Since the beginning of the year, for example, avoidable noise from the exhaust system has been heavily penalized. Drivers who like to let go of the steering wheel while driving, on the other hand, have reason to rejoice - from March, this will be permitted in a car with an approved highway pilot. These and other changes will apply on Swiss roads from the beginning of 2025 - the details.
Various changes came into force on Swiss roads at the turn of the year. New road traffic noise regulations have been in force since January 1, 2025. It is now explicitly forbidden to generate avoidable noise with exhaust systems, especially banging noises. The offense can be punished by the court with a fine of up to CHF 10,000. In addition, noise-related fines, such as leaving the engine running unnecessarily, will be increased from 60 francs to 80 francs.
As in the EU, motorcycles in Switzerland must comply with the latest emissions regulations, the so-called Euro 5+ standard, when they are first registered from January 1, 2025. At the same time, stricter noise regulations for initial registration will also come into force here.
Automated driving takes a big step forward
From March 1, automated driving will be possible on Swiss roads. Anyone driving a car with an approved and activated highway pilot will be allowed to let go of the steering wheel on the highway and will no longer have to constantly monitor the traffic or the vehicle. However, you must be prepared to operate the vehicle yourself again if the system requires it. However, there are only a few vehicle types that have the required automation system. And as of mid-December 2024, no manufacturer has yet applied for approval for Switzerland. So you'll probably have to wait a little longer before you're no longer cruising down the highway yourself, but rather having someone else do it for you.
Driverless vehicles will also be allowed to drive on officially approved routes from March 1. However, they must be monitored by an operator at a control center. Automated parking without the presence of a driver is also possible within defined and signalized parking garages and parking spaces.
The development of driver assistance and automation systems also influences the theoretical and practical driving tests for cars and motorcycles. This is because knowledge in these areas will be tested from July 1.
And as of July 1, the category of heavy electric motorcycles (total weight up to 450 kg) will be created. This takes account of the growing importance of cargo bikes. These new regulations will also apply to the signaling of parking spaces.
Regardless of what will change on Swiss roads in 2025, the AutoSprintCH editorial team wishes you a safe journey!
