Switzerland has finalized a reform of its heavy vehicle fee system, known as LSVA, which applies to goods transport vehicles exceeding 3.5 tonnes. Both chambers of the Swiss Parliament approved the changes, which will end the current full toll exemption for battery-electric and hydrogen-powered trucks starting in 2031.
To ease the transition, the government will implement a phased reduction of discounts for emission-free vehicles. A 70 per cent discount is scheduled for 2031, dropping to 50 per cent in 2032, 30 per cent in 2033, 20 per cent in 2034, and 10 per cent in 2035. The discount will be fully eliminated by 2036.
The reform also impacts conventional vehicles, with Euro 6 and Euro 7 trucks moving to a higher fee category. While Euro 7 vehicles will receive temporary discounts until 2035, the specific tariff structures are still under development by the Federal Council. The new rules also mandate a seven-year lead time for any future changes to vehicle classification.
The legislation aims to provide long-term planning certainty for the transport industry, as requested by the Swiss Commercial Vehicle Association ASTAG. While the reform is politically approved, it remains subject to an optional referendum period before it can officially enter into force.
