AsstrA launches intermodal transport service to Poznań
Jun 3, 2026 at 7:54 AM
The Swiss Commercial Vehicle Association ASTAG has positively received today’s decision of the Council of States regarding the further development of the performance-based heavy vehicle fee (LSVA). This resolution promotes progress in the decarbonization of road transport and improves planning and investment security for the road transport industry.
Switzerland’s Pioneering Role in Decarbonization
The Swiss road transport industry plays a leading role in decarbonization. According to ASTAG, the share of electric vehicles among newly registered trucks in Switzerland is higher than in any other European country. A key factor for this success is the complete exemption from the LSVA for electric trucks. This fiscal relief is crucial as it enables transport companies to invest in costly electric trucks and the necessary charging infrastructure.
The decision of the Council of States creates the conditions for the continuation of decarbonization regarding the LSVA exemption for electric vehicles. The total exemption from the LSVA is set to remain in place until 2031. Additionally, the Council of States has decided on degressive minimum discount rates on the LSVA for the period from 2031 to 2035, starting at 70% in the first year and decreasing to 10% by 2035. Thierry Burkart, Councilor and Central President of ASTAG, emphasizes: “Decarbonization remains an extremely expensive and complex undertaking. It is therefore correct that the LSVA continues to provide legally guaranteed and effective incentives even after 2031.” The establishment of these discounts is seen as an important signal for the industry, as the amortization periods in the road transport sector are long and the LSVA represents a significant cost factor.
Planning Security for Investments
Another positive aspect of the decision is the regulation that downgrades must be announced with a lead time of seven years in the future. This planning security is crucial for the road transport industry, as the modernization of vehicle fleets is based on stable and reliable foundations. The amount of the LSVA directly influences costs, freight rates, and amortization periods. In the case of a downgrade, the LSVA for a vehicle category can increase by about 15% from one day to the next. Burkart explains: “Trucks are sometimes in use for 10 years or more. Knowing the key points of the fee early on is therefore crucial for the industry, especially regarding the purchase of clean, safe vehicles.”
The draft law is expected to go into the reconciliation process between the National Council and the Council of States during the fall session of 2026. ASTAG appeals to the National Council to adopt the framework conditions set by the Council of States.
