From next March, drivers in Switzerland will be able to fully let go of the wheel for the first time, following the legalisation of so-called “autonomous driving.” The government said it hoped autonomous driving functions and full-blown driverless vehicles would help improve both safety and traffic jams.

Vehicle autopilot functions to be legalised in Switzerland

In a statement, the Federal Council confirmed that it will be legalising automated driving technology for regular use. The proposed measures will come into force on March 1, 2025.

Under the changes, drivers with vehicles equipped with automated piloting systems - like Tesla’s autopilot system - will be able to use them on Swiss motorways. “If the motorway pilot is activated, they can let go of the steering device and no longer have to constantly monitor the traffic and the vehicle,” the Federal Council wrote.

However, this does not mean that users will be able to take a nap or venture to the backseat when on the open road: “[Drivers] must remain ready to operate the vehicle themselves at any time if the automated system prompts them to do so.”

Swiss cantons allowed to authorise driverless vehicles

Completely driverless vehicles will also be permitted, but only on routes which are approved by Swiss cantons. These routes will be strictly controlled by local authorities, and all autonomous vehicles will be operated via a control centre which will be able to step in should the vehicle malfunction.

Finally, drivers will also be able to use driverless parking systems. However, once again the locations where this will be possible will be determined by local councils and the cantons.

Autonomous driving could reduce traffic and accidents, Federal Council argues

In the statement, the government noted that automated vehicles have the potential to reduce road accidents and ease traffic jams. “They also open up new opportunities for the economy and public transport providers,” the Federal Council added.

For driverless vehicles, the council said that they are “particularly attractive for transporting goods and covering the "last mile" in passenger transport.” Indeed, in December Swiss Federal Railways confirmed that it would be testing driverless public transport services in Canton Zurich next spring.

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