Switzerland to subsidise small firms installing truck chargers

Switzerland currently has the highest share of electric truck registrations in Europe. According to the latest figures from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), the electric share since the beginning of the year stands at 19 per cent. In other words, one in five newly registered trucks in Switzerland so far this year has been an electric vehicle.

The current toll exemption for electric trucks also plays a major role, as it represents a considerable financial advantage for logistics companies given the country’s high toll rates. However, the initial investment required for electric trucks remains substantial – and Switzerland now intends to support smaller firms in particular with these costs.

The federal government has therefore tasked the Swiss Commercial Vehicle Association ASTAG (Association Suisse des Transports routiers) with implementing a subsidy programme called “Electric Truck Charging Infrastructure”. The scheme aims to encourage the installation of depot-based charging infrastructure at company sites. Between 2026 and 2030, a total of 20 million francs – equivalent to around 21.5 million euros – will be available for funding. Only small and medium-sized enterprises with fewer than 250 employees are eligible to participate. Applications can be submitted from 1 January 2026.

The government’s goal with the programme is to promote equal opportunities. “ASTAG advocates for fair framework conditions,” said Thierry Burkart, President of the Central Committee and Member of the Council of States. “Fleet electrification must be possible for everyone, otherwise the industry risks consolidation at the expense of Switzerland’s SME landscape – something we must and will prevent.” He added that the funding would also “enable a rapid yet sector-compatible decarbonisation of the road transport industry.”

Based on Article 6 of the Swiss Climate and Innovation Act (KlG), 20 million francs (around 3.05 million euros) in funding will now be available. Each company can receive up to 40 per cent of the costs for planning, grid connection, cabling and charging equipment. ASTAG, in cooperation with EBP Schweiz, will be responsible for managing the entire industry programme, including approval of funding, monitoring and communications.

ASTAG expects to receive “around 150 applications for charging stations serving approximately 600 trucks.” “This could result in annual savings of almost 40,000 tonnes of CO₂ equivalents,” the association emphasised. Based on 150 approved applications, the average amount of funding would be approximately 133,300 francs per project.

astag.ch (in German)

This article was first published by Cora Werwitzke for electrive’s German edition.