Automated Driving Legislation in Switzerland: A Theoretical Step Forward

As of March 1, automated driving has been officially permitted in Switzerland, allowing for the use of systems like traffic jam assistants that can take control of a vehicle in stop-and-go traffic under certain conditions. However, drivers from Germany and other countries still face limitations in utilizing these systems, as no automobile manufacturer has yet applied for approval in Switzerland. This means that even if a vehicle is equipped with such technology, it cannot be used on Swiss roads.

In Germany, companies like Mercedes and BMW offer traffic jam assistance in select models. The Swiss Federal Roads Office has indicated that it is crucial for these automated systems to be able to recognize local road features, such as unique road markings. Consequently, manufacturers will need to conduct thorough training and testing of their systems on Swiss roads before being granted the necessary licenses for operation.

Additionally, the use of geofencing technology will automatically disable the systems when vehicles cross into neighboring countries where they are not authorized. This feature ensures compliance with local regulations, preventing unauthorized system activation abroad.

With the newly implemented regulation, Switzerland also permits the operation of driverless vehicles on officially sanctioned routes. This includes automated parking without a driver present in designated parking structures and lots, marking a significant advancement in the realm of automated transportation.