The Swiss government (Bundesrat) has adopted the Ordinance on Automated Driving (Verordnung über das automatisierte Fahren, VAF), establishing a robust regulatory framework to implement amendments to the Road Traffic Act (Strassenverkehrsgesetz, SVG) approved by Parliament in 2023. This forward-looking legislation enables transformative transportation technologies, including hands-free driving with autopilot systems on highways, driverless vehicles on pre-defined routes, and fully automated parking solutions. These advancements promise to enhance mobility by improving road safety, reducing traffic congestion, and optimise parking spaces and land.
From March 1, 2025, automated driving systems could be operational, provided they meet technical, safety and cybersecurity standards. Mobility providers operating driverless vehicles will have to ensure compliance, train personnel, and work with local and federal authorities to obtain the necessary authorizations and infrastructure.
This article provides an overview of the Ordinance.
Definitions
The amended Road Traffic Act and the VAF provide specific definitions for automated vehicles, grouped into three main categories based on their intended use and operational scope:
- Vehicle with a Takeover Request: An automated vehicle (Level 3) intended for highway use, which alerts the driver when the automation system has reached its operational limits. (VAF, Art. 2(a))
- Vehicles for Parking Automation: A vehicle configured to manoeuvre independently between a drop-off point and a parking spot without driver supervision. (VAF, Art. 2(b))
- Driverless vehicles: An automated vehicle (Level 4) designed to perform all driving tasks of the driver fully and permanently within specific Operational Design Domains (ODDs). These vehicles operate autonomously but are subject to area-specific approvals.
General Requirements for Automated Vehicles
All automated vehicles must adhere to international technical standards and traffic regulations. They must be equipped with, notably, the following:
- A memory system to record events such as collisions and emergency manoeuvres;
- Cybersecurity and software update mechanisms;
- Vehicle Type Approval or equivalent homologation;
- Reporting mechanisms towards FEDRO. (VAF, Arts. 3-8, 11, 12, 14)
Section 1: Automated vehicles with Takeover Request for highway use cases
The process of transferring driving tasks to a vehicle under the new ordinance is clear and safety-focused. Sellers of Level 3 automated vehicles must inform customers about the system’s proper use and obtain written confirmation that they understand its features and limitations. (VAF, Art. 22)
Drivers must activate the automation system as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Once active, they can let the system drive the vehicle on highways with separated traffic directions and take their hands off the controls. While they don’t need to constantly monitor the system or traffic, drivers must be ready to take over at any moment. They should keep their vision clear and sit in a position that allows quick intervention. Distractions or actions that might delay their response are not allowed. Drivers must resume control when prompted by the system or when it becomes clear that the conditions for safe use are no longer met. (VAF, Art. 23)
To ensure accountability, vehicles with a takeover request must be equipped with a driving mode recorder. This system logs key events, including when the automation system is activated or deactivated, the reasons for these actions, and the circumstances behind takeover requests. It also tracks any situations where the automation system overrides driver interventions. These records are essential for analysing system performance, ensuring compliance, and addressing any incidents. (VAF, Art. 24)
Section 2: Automated Parking
Automated parking systems are permitted only in authorized and designated areas to ensure safety and efficiency. These parking zones must be monitored to promptly address incidents and report accidents to the police. (VAF, Arts. 25, 26.) Vehicles equipped with automated parking systems should be capable of identifying free spaces and navigating routes autonomously, either entirely on their own or with the help of external infrastructure. (VAF, Art. 27.) To avoid interference with regular traffic, these zones must be clearly marked and physically separated from other traffic areas such as roads, sidewalks, and bike paths. (VAF, Art. 28.) Operators of automated parking facilities must obtain authorization from the relevant cantonal authorities, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements. (Art. 31.)
Section 3: Driverless Vehicles
Driverless vehicles must adhere to stringent operational, safety and cybersecurity standards outlined in the ordinance. Before deployment, a pre-departure check is required to ensure all critical components, such as brakes and tires, are functioning correctly and to address any identified issues. (VAF, Art. 33)
During operation, driverless vehicles must be monitored by an operator based in Switzerland. The operator ensures infrastructure is functional, activates and deactivates the automation system as required, and confirms pre-departure checks are completed. Operators review system-proposed maneuvers, intervene if necessary to reduce risks, and resolve any issues before resuming operations. They are also responsible for managing passenger communications, ensuring safety during emergencies, and promptly reporting accidents to the police. These actions ensure compliance and safety in all operational scenarios. (VAF, Art. 34)
Driverless vehicles can also be operated manually using in-vehicle controls or remote systems. The transition from automated to manual operation is only permitted when the vehicle is stationary. Manual operators are considered drivers and must meet the same qualifications as traditional drivers, including holding a valid Category B driving license and not being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Operators and manual drivers must complete mandatory training provided by the manufacturer or importer to understand the vehicle’s technical and operational systems. This training ensures safe and efficient use of both manual and automated features. (VAF, Arts. 35-37)
Vehicle owners are responsible for keeping driverless systems updated and well-maintained according to manufacturer guidelines. They must ensure pre-departure checks are completed daily and that vehicles are operated only within authorized conditions and areas. Authorization for the operational domain must be obtained from the canton in which the vehicle operates. Communication systems must allow authorities to contact operators when needed, and organizational measures should ensure all legal obligations are met. (VAF, Arts. 38, 43, 47)
Exemptions
The FEDRO has the authority to grant specific exemptions for driverless vehicles and automated parking systems under certain articles of the ordinance, provided a comparable safety level is maintained. These exemptions may include additional requirements or temporary limitations. (VAF, Art. 50)
Author: Oliver Nahon, Director of Operations, SAAM
Co-Author: Amin Amini, CEO & Founder, LOXO
Follow us on LinkedIn to stay
up-to-date with SAAM news!