Electric Vehicles Gaining Ground in the Swiss Alps

In the heart of Europe, Switzerland is making significant strides in the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). ABB, a well-known EVSE supplier, has advertisements at Zurich airport, signalling the growing interest in EVs among the public.

The Swiss landscape is dotted with public charging points, boasting a high ratio of public chargers to EVs. This infrastructure is complemented by a variety of charging networks, including GOFAST, MOVE, and Shell's evpass. Swiss consumers, however, are not conditioned to expect "free" charging and usually pay for the service.

Some cantons, cities, electric utilities, and private firms in Switzerland offer modest tax breaks for EV owners. This, along with the growing number of charging points, is encouraging more people to make the switch to electric.

Swiss Post, a major player in the country's delivery sector, has committed to electrify all its delivery vehicles by 2030. The postal service operates a fleet of 1,100 delivery vans and 6,000 three-wheeled electric scooters, and their progress can be followed on an interactive map. Swiss Post has also begun a V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid) pilot, demonstrating their commitment to sustainable energy solutions.

Designwerk Technologies, based in Winterthur, Switzerland, produces a DC fast charging station for commercial EVs in a container format, compatible with the Megawatt Charging System. Galliker Transport, a Swiss logistics provider, is currently using Designwerk Technologies' Stationary Mega Charger to charge heavy e-trucks like the Mercedes eActros.

European brands dominate the Swiss EV market, but Chinese brands are starting to appear. However, unlike in the US, the federal government in Switzerland does not provide purchase incentives for EVs.

Switzerland's public transit system, which includes electric trams, trolleybuses, and battery-electric buses, is comprehensive and modern. The Swiss railway system, the world's second-most dense, has been 100% electrified since the mid-20th century and is now powered by 100% renewable energy.

In 2020, Hyundai's project to pilot 50 fuel cell heavy-duty trucks with Swiss fleet customers fell apart due to unavailability of green hydrogen. Since then, there are no publicly documented Swiss companies or institutions that have started a pilot project specifically focused on the use of large battery acceleration for commercial electric trucks.

A recent observation shows that there are often EVs parked near unoccupied public chargers in Switzerland. Short driving distances in the country may moderate the demand for DC fast charging.

Switzerland currently has a 19% market share of BEVs, comparable to the UK, France, and Austria, and ahead of Germany and Italy. The country's commitment to sustainable energy solutions and its robust infrastructure make it a leader in the adoption of EVs in Europe.

Local companies such as Leclanche, Staubli, BRUGG, and ABB are contributing to the EV industry, providing automotive solutions and technology. Opportunity charging is not widely utilized in Switzerland, as EV owners often find it cheaper to charge at home.

In conclusion, Switzerland is making significant strides in the adoption of electric vehicles. With a growing number of charging points, tax breaks for EV owners, and a commitment from major players like Swiss Post to electrify their fleet, the country is well on its way to becoming a leader in sustainable transportation.