Automated Mobility Summit 2026 in Zurich
Apr 17, 2026 at 8:18 AM
The Commission for Transport and Telecommunications of the Council of States (KVF-S) has completed its discussions on the further development of the Performance-Dependent Heavy Vehicle Charge (LSVA). The Swiss Commercial Vehicle Association ASTAG generally welcomes the decisions but sees a setback regarding the discount rates for electric trucks.
ASTAG appreciates the fundamental direction of the KVF-S regarding the future design of the LSVA, particularly concerning planning and investment security for the road transport industry. A central point is that electric vehicles will only gradually be included in the charge obligation starting in 2031. This was decided by the commission in agreement with the National Council. Additionally, important amendments were made, such as the stipulation that tariff adjustments will now occur with a lead time of seven years. The retention of the existing LSVA tariff caps is also viewed positively, as it contributes to the ongoing decarbonization of road transport. Thierry Burkart, a member of the Council of States and Central President of ASTAG, emphasizes: „Planning and investment security is crucial for the industry’s continued willingness to modernize its fleet.“
Discounts for Electric Trucks in Focus
ASTAG criticizes the KVF-S’s decision to significantly reduce the minimum discounts for electric trucks and to introduce a discount range. The association points out that Switzerland is taking a pioneering role in the electrification of heavy transport. The fact that over 20% of newly registered heavy vehicles are electrically powered is primarily due to the current total exemption from the LSVA.
The higher acquisition costs for electric trucks, which are more than double that of a conventional model, as well as the significant investments in their own charging infrastructure, pose a challenge. Without adequate discounts on the LSVA, it is hardly possible to amortize these additional costs. Burkart warns: „If the framework conditions are not right, Switzerland will squander its progress in decarbonizing heavy transport.“ Therefore, ASTAG calls on the Council of States to take economic realities in decarbonization more into account and to set the discounts in accordance with the decision of the National Council.
