Switzerland Plans Adoption of EU Vehicle Energy Labels and Revised CO2 Targets

The Swiss Federal Council has initiated a consultation process to adopt standardized European Union energy labels for new motor vehicles and adjust national CO2 emission targets. Announced on Wednesday, the proposed revisions to the Energy Act and the CO2 Act would replace Switzerland's national labeling system, which has been in place since 2003.

Under the proposed system, energy efficiency ratings will be determined directly by vehicle manufacturers based on carbon dioxide emissions. This shift automatically places all purely electric vehicles into efficiency Category A. Currently, under Swiss guidelines, only exceptionally efficient electric models achieve Category A, while the majority are classified in Category B. The government stated that direct manufacturer labeling aims to streamline administrative procedures for importers, car dealers, and enforcement authorities.

The legislative package also introduces revised carbon targets for commercial transport set to take effect in 2030. For light commercial vehicles, the proposed target for new registrations increases from 90.6 grams to 108.7 grams of CO2 per kilometer, representing a relaxation of current rules for importers. Conversely, emission standards for heavy commercial vehicles will become stricter, requiring a 45 percent reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030 rather than the previously planned 30 percent reduction.

According to the Federal Council, these domestic legislative changes correspond to proposals put forward by the European Commission within its automotive package. The government noted that the net effect on overall carbon emissions is expected to be minimal, as the stricter heavy vehicle rules largely offset the relaxed light vehicle targets. Interested parties have until February 18 to submit comments on both draft proposals.

Written by Andreas Hofer andreas.hofer@alpineweekly.com