(04.02.2026) The automotive market suffered a significant setback in the commercial vehicle segment. In 2025, only 38’707 commercial vehicles were registered, down -8,3% compared with the previous year, according to the umbrella association auto-suisse.
In the category of trucks over 3.5 tons, the number of new registrations fell by as much as -14%. According to auto-suisse, this decline is explained by uncertainty surrounding the introduction of the performance-related heavy vehicle fee (RPLP) for electric commercial vehicles. Electric trucks, which have so far been exempt, will also be required to pay this charge in the future. Originally expected to enter into force in 2031, the introduction of the RPLP could be brought forward to 2029.
Electrification of the commercial vehicle fleet nevertheless reached a new milestone in 2025. Electric vehicles accounted for 22,4% of sales in the commercial vehicles segment over 3.5 tons (942 new registrations nationwide), a record proportion. With 524 units registered, heavy battery-electric trucks (BEV, over 16 tons) also reached a market share of more than 16% in 2025.
However, the number of light commercial vehicles (up to 3.5 tonnes) registered in 2025 fell by 5% compared to 2024. This slowdown is mainly due to uncertainties surrounding the economic outlook, which are prompting companies to postpone replacing their vehicles.
The number of light commercial vehicles (up to 3.5 tons) registered in 2025 nevertheless declined by -5% compared with 2024. This slowdown is mainly due to uncertainty regarding the economic outlook, which is prompting companies to postpone replacing their vehicles.
In the passenger transport segment, only 5,518 new vehicles were registered in 2025 (-19%), compared with 6,800 the previous year. The decline in demand for minibuses, coaches and motorhomes largely explains this situation. On the other hand, bus sales jumped by 49%, boosted by significant investments in the modernisation of public transport.
In the passenger transport segment, only 5’518 new vehicles were registered in 2025 (-19%), compared with 6’800 the previous year. The decline in demand for minibuses, coaches, and motorhomes largely explains this situation. By contrast, bus sales increased by 49%, driven by significant investment in the modernization of public transportation.
Last modification 04.02.2026
