Residual value risk for trucks is becoming a cost factor for Swiss fleets. New vehicles are expensive, and the length of ownership determines the margin. Nevertheless, many companies still make only rough estimates when calculating resale value. That is precisely where the biggest surprises arise.
LSVA Category Determines the Resale Value
The second buyer isn’t buying a truck—they’re buying future operating costs. A Euro 6 vehicle falls into Category III and costs 2.390 rappen per metric ton-kilometer. For Euro 0 through 3, however, the rate is 3.260 rappen—that is, Category I. For an 18-metric-ton vehicle traveling 100 kilometers, this amounts to CHF 43.02 instead of CHF 58.68. On the Basel–Chiasso route, the difference adds up to about 42 francs per trip, as calculated by the TMS platform IMPARGO. That is why the Swiss used truck market is very sensitive to emission classes.
Special equipment rarely pays off at resale
Manufacturers regularly launch limited editions. Volvo Trucks, for example, is currently launching the “Volvo 100 Year Edition” for the FH and FH16 models. Such editions strengthen the brand and driver loyalty. The used truck market, however, prioritizes other criteria. It focuses on axle configuration, transmission, mileage, service history, and body compatibility. Highly customized specifications also narrow the pool of potential buyers. Consequently, liquidity decreases, and the price drops.
Electric trucks introduce a new residual value risk
Switzerland is electrifying its fleet early—and as a result, many questions remain unanswered. In 2025, 22.4 percent of new heavy-duty commercial vehicles were fully electric, as auto-schweiz noted in its 2025 annual statistics. A total of 524 new battery-electric trucks weighing over 16 metric tons were put into service. These vehicles will enter the used-vehicle market starting around 2028. At that point, the battery’s condition will determine the price.
A look at the passenger car market illustrates the dynamics. There, electric cars typically lose over 49 percent of their value after 36 months, while internal combustion engine vehicles lose around 36 percent. According to the study, “State of Health” certificates are set to become the standard for assessing reliability. The figures cannot be directly applied to heavy-duty commercial vehicles, but the logic applies there as well.
LSVA Starting in 2031 Shifts the Holding Period
The final parliamentary decision on subjecting electric trucks to the LSVA, scheduled for the fall session, will have a direct impact on the residual value curve. Electric trucks will remain fully exempt from the LSVA through the end of 2030. Starting in 2031, a minimum discount of 70 percent will apply, and 50 percent in 2032. By 2035, it will gradually decrease to 10 percent. An electric truck purchased in 2026 will therefore be sold in the middle of this transition. The second buyer will already be factoring in these taxes. As a result, the regulation drives down the achievable price, even though the vehicle is technically impressive.
Switzerland’s used truck market remains dependent on exports
Swiss fleets sell many vehicles abroad. Different standards apply there than here in Switzerland. European standard configurations with high mileage tolerance are in demand. Swiss specialties, such as heavy crane superstructures, in contrast, find fewer buyers. Furthermore, exchange rates and the European economic climate have a noticeable impact on proceeds. Anyone planning a sale should therefore explore multiple channels early on.
Negotiating Residual Value Guarantees and Buyback Agreements Effectively
Many manufacturers and leasing companies offer buyback models. These shift the risk but eat into margins. The details in the contract are crucial. Key factors include mileage ranges, condition checklists, exclusions, and the assessment of battery degradation. Equally relevant is the question of who bears the difference in the event of regulatory changes. A residual value promise without a clear battery clause is of little use for electric fleets.
What Fleet Managers Should Do Now
Five measures immediately reduce residual value risk. First, deliberately align the holding period with the LSVA window through 2030. Second, order standard market specifications and critically review special requests. Third, maintain a complete digital record of service and repair history. Fourth, for electric vehicles, have battery data regularly recorded and certified. Fifth, do not leave the timing of the sale to chance; instead, factor it into your budget. This way, residual value becomes a planning variable rather than a risk.
What does residual value risk mean for trucks?
It describes the risk that the sales proceeds will fall short of the calculated value. This negatively impacts the overall cost calculation.
Why does the LSVA affect the used vehicle price?
The buyer assumes responsibility for future taxes. An unfavorable emissions class increases the cost per metric ton-kilometer driven.
How significant is the LSVA difference between the categories?
Category III costs 2.390 rappen per metric ton-kilometer, while Category I costs 3.260 rappen. For a load of 18 metric tons over 100 kilometers, that amounts to CHF 43.02 versus CHF 58.68.
When will electric trucks in Switzerland start paying the LSVA?
Starting in 2031. A full exemption applies until the end of 2030.
How much will the discounts for electric trucks be starting in 2031?
At least 70 percent in 2031 and at least 50 percent in 2032. By 2035, the discount will drop to 10 percent.
Do electric trucks depreciate faster than diesel trucks?
Reliable long-term Swiss data is not yet available. However, experience from the passenger car market suggests higher depreciation rates.
What is a State-of-Health certificate?
It documents the verified condition of the battery. This allows the residual value to be justified in a transparent manner.
Do special editions increase the resale value?
Usually not. Customized features narrow the pool of potential buyers and extend the time the vehicle remains on the market.
What is a reasonable holding period?
That depends on the usage profile and mileage. For electric fleets, it’s worth aligning with the LSVA window through 2030.
What are the benefits of a residual value guarantee?
It shifts the risk to the provider but reduces profit margins. The mileage range, condition catalog, and battery clause are crucial.
What documents increase the sale price?
A complete service history, inspection reports, repair records, and—for electric vehicles—documented battery data.
