In 2024, Switzerland experienced its first drop in electric vehicle (EV) and plug-in hybrid sales, with decreases of 12.5% and 10.4% respectively compared to the previous year. According to Auto Schweiz, for the country to meet its short-term environmental goals, 50% of vehicles on the road need to be EVs or plug-in hybrids, but the current figure stands at just 28%.

Peter Grünenfelder, President of Auto Schweiz, attributed the stagnation in EV sales to what he described as “misguided policies.” He criticized the Swiss government’s decision to subject EVs to some vehicle taxes starting in 2024, parliament’s refusal to approve a state-funded network of EV charging stations, and the rising cost of energy, all of which have made electric cars less appealing to potential buyers.

With climate change continuing to be a critical issue and bans on new petrol and diesel vehicles looming, Auto Schweiz has called on the government to prioritize the transition to electric vehicles by making them more affordable and accessible for consumers.