Politicians and industry are increasingly concerned about why plug-in vehicles in Switzerland are falling significantly short of targets. This is because the Swiss car market generally failed to meet expectations in November, as auto-schweiz reports. Despite intensive sales activities, attractive offers, and a wide range of models, the overall market showed no positive trend at the end of November 2025. With a decline of 3.4% since the beginning of the year, the overall market shows no signs of recovery.
In the market for new passenger cars in Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein, however, there was still no turnaround in the trend for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles in November. Demand continues to fall significantly short of climate policy expectations and the market-remote requirements of CO₂ regulation.
Electric mobility roadmap targets missed
A total of 19,615 new cars were registered in November, almost as many as in the previous year (-0.4%). This illustrates the considerable sales efforts made by importers and dealers, who have been trying to turn around another poor year with promotional campaigns. Purely electric vehicles (BEVs) achieved a market share of 24.3 percent in November, while plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) accounted for 11.5 percent, which together amounts to 35.8 percent – around 15 percentage points below the target set out in the Electric Mobility Roadmap.
Declining new registrations are slowing down the effect
The overall market is shrinking, which is why even rising electric vehicle shares are not having enough impact. Fewer cars sold automatically means fewer plug-in vehicles. As a result, Switzerland is moving away from its target, even though demand in the segment is rising slightly.
High purchase costs remain a hurdle
Many customers continue to see high purchase prices as a barrier. In many places, there are no subsidy programs, or they are not effective enough. At the same time, the prices of traditional combustion engines are falling, which further delays the switch.
Charging infrastructure is growing too slowly
The number of charging points is increasing, but too slowly and very unevenly across regions. Rural areas lack fast chargers, and renters often do not have access to private charging stations. Without reliable charging options, many people are not switching.
Political targets are considered unrealistic
Industry representatives criticize that the official targets hardly correspond to market reality. A 50 percent share of plug-in vehicles by the end of 2025 is too ambitious, as economic conditions and infrastructure cannot keep pace.
Uncertainties hamper plug-in hybrids
Plug-in hybrids are growing strongly, but their reputation remains controversial. Many potential buyers doubt the actual CO₂ benefits or the everyday suitability of the electric range. This further weakens the market.
Consequences: CO₂ targets at risk
Because the share of plug-in vehicles remains too low, importers face high CO₂ compensation payments. In addition, transport policy is coming under pressure because the climate targets are hardly achievable with the current registration figures.
What is needed now
To close the gap, Switzerland needs faster charging infrastructure, better incentives, and more planning security. Only when costs, availability, and suitability for everyday use are right will registrations increase noticeably.
Why is the share of plug-in vehicles falling short of expectations?
Because costs, charging infrastructure, market development, and political targets are not in harmony.
What role do vehicle prices play?
High purchase costs are deterring many buyers, especially when compared to combustion engines, which are becoming cheaper.
Why is the charging infrastructure a problem?
It is growing too slowly in some regions and offers too little planning security, especially for renters and commuters.
Are the political targets realistic?
According to the industry, no. The targets are ambitious, but not sufficiently aligned with market conditions.
What are the consequences of this development?
CO₂ targets are at risk, and importers face compensation payments.
