Are we really allowed to drive without looking at the road in 2025?
I've heard that Switzerland now allows automated driving. Can I install an automated driving system in my vehicle? What steps do I need to take? I'd love to be able to read my files on long journeys, especially in accordion traffic...
Damien, Geneva
Automated driving has been permitted on our roads since last Saturday, 1 March 2025.
However, it should be borne in mind from the outset that one of the cardinal principles in this area, enshrined in art. 31 of the Federal Road Traffic Act (RTA), is that the driver must remain in control of his vehicle at all times so as to be able to comply with the duty to exercise due care. Automated driving, now governed by art. 25a to 25h of the Swiss Road Traffic Act (RTA), the details of which are set out in the Federal Ordinance on Automated Driving (OCAut), makes it possible to depart from this general principle of control of the vehicle in certain cases and under certain conditions.
But what exactly is meant by "automated driving"? According to the new legal provisions, cars equipped with an automation system are those capable of assuming all driving tasks permanently and completely, at least in certain situations. Once such an automation system has been successfully activated, the driver is allowed to let go of the steering wheel and leave the steering of the vehicle to the computer. This option is currently only permitted on motorways where there is a separation of traffic directions (art. 23 OCAut).
In other words, only drivers of automated vehicles fitted with motorway autopilot systems will be able to use them. If the system is activated, they will be able to take their hands off the wheel and stop constantly monitoring the traffic and their car. However, they will have to be ready to resume driving the vehicle at any time if the automation system prompts them to do so.
However, it should be emphasised that the autopilot system on motorways must of course have been approved by the Federal Roads Office (FEDRO), a process that vehicle manufacturers are responsible for undertaking. However, it would appear that to date no manufacturer has applied for such approval in our country.
So, although automated driving is now permitted, you'll have to wait a little longer before you can read the Tribune de Genève from your left-hand seat. As for answering your e-mails in town or on country roads, or the dream of having your autonomous car pick you up at the office, you'll have to wait a few more years at least!
