CO2 emission regulations for new vehicles apply in Switzerland just as they do in the EU. As of 1 January 2025, under the WLTP, the average level of emissions from passenger cars registered in Switzerland for the first time may not exceed 93.6 grams of CO2 per kilometre, while emissions from vans and light articulated vehicles (known collectively as light commercial vehicles or LCVs) registered for the first time may emit a maximum of 153.9 grams of CO2 per kilometre. The 2025 target values have been tightened compared to previous years.
In addition, CO2 target values came into force for lorries and articulated vehicles (heavy-duty vehicles, or HDVs) for the first time on 1 January 2025. Importers of new HDVs must reduce average emissions by 15% against the EU regulation’s reference values (emissions of the new 2019/2020 fleet).
Each importer’s vehicle fleet has to meet an individual target based on these values. If the target is exceeded, the importer must pay a penalty.
Small and large importers
The CO2 regulations apply to all importers of new passenger cars, LCVs and HDVs, although a differentiation is made between small and large importers. A large importer is one who registers at least 50 passenger cars or at least six LCVs or two HDVs for the first time in Switzerland each year. All HDV importers and large importers of passenger cars and LCVs must be registered with the SFOE. Importers may join forces to form emissions pools in order to attain the minimum number of vehicles to qualify as large importers and so collectively meet the specified target level. Emissions pools have the same rights and obligations as large importers.
Private individuals who import a new car directly are classified as small importers. They have the option of registering their vehicle via a large importer. In this way, they can reduce any penalties or benefit from a bonus that applies to privately imported efficient vehicles.
Registering as a large importer or emissions pool
To register as a large importer or emissions pool, go to the DETEC eGovernment portal at www.uvek.egov.swiss.
Vehicle attestation
Small importers of passenger cars and LCVs must pay any carbon penalty due before registering vehicles in Switzerland. To start this process, the necessary vehicle data must first be recorded in digital form with the Federal Roads Office (FEDRO). This can be done via the FEDRO KDI portal for vehicle imports.
The same obligations and procedures apply to small and large importers of HDVs as to large importers of passenger cars and LCVs.
