Self-driving cars take a step closer

From the beginning of this month, laws governing self-driving cars have changed, but don’t expect to see people sitting behind the wheel, while reading just yet.

Drivers can use the autoroute mode, and take their hands off the wheel, but they must be ready to take control if required. 

Cantons can now determine routes that could be used by self-driving cars and designate car parking spaces where automatic parking systems can be used.

Manufacturers can also apply to have their self-driving systems approved for Swiss roads, but so far none have. 

Switzerland will also accept any systems which have been cleared for use in the EU – but again none have, as yet. 

More from Bitesize News

  • Phone company going to court

    A Swisscom technician who spent 38 years at the company says he was fired for helping his 80-year-old neighbour cancel a subscription she never wanted

  • Swiss watch authenticity

    Voices in the Swiss watch industry are calling for a new '100% Swiss made' label to distinguish fully home-produced timepieces from those partly manufactured in Asia

  • Valais school initiative

    Valais is rolling out an interactive workshop for 2,600 secondary school pupils to help them spot hidden marketing on social media

  • UBS latest news

    The Council of States has backed a 90% capital-coverage rule for UBS's foreign subsidiaries — a compromise stopping short of the Federal Council's push for full coverage

  • Housing concerns still an issue

    Switzerland's housing crisis will ease only marginally next year, according to a new study

  • Valais scam alert

    Valais police say a fresh wave of phone scams has cost residents nearly CHF 150,000 in the past week alone

Download our app

  • Available on the App Store
  • Available on Google Play