Switzerland considers speed limit reduction

Authorities in Switzerland are considering temporarily reducing the maximum speed on highways from 120 to 80 km/h to help ease fuel supply tensions. This measure is being evaluated as a last-resort option to address concerns about potential diesel shortages.

Fuel reserves released

The Swiss Confederation has already released 45 million liters of diesel from its strategic reserves, which accounts for about 4% of the mandatory reserves. This action was taken to stabilize the supply and prevent a more severe crisis.

OFAE outlines current situation

The Federal Office for Economic Supply (OFAE) has described the current fuel situation as "very tense" and has proposed the speed limit reduction to other federal administration services and the Federal Chancellery. The proposal is part of an internal consultation process that began in the autumn.

Voluntary measures to be encouraged

Before implementing the speed reduction, the Confederation plans to promote voluntary fuel-saving measures. These include carpooling, increased use of public transport, and reducing non-essential travel. The goal is to reduce fuel consumption without changing speed limits.

Measure a last resort

The proposed speed limit change would only be deployed if the situation deteriorates significantly. This gives authorities time to assess the effectiveness of voluntary measures and decide on further actions.