From self-driving shuttle buses to delivery robots, pilot schemes are bringing automated driving to our roads. These schemes provide valuable insights in real-world conditions. FEDRO supports these schemes throughout the process, from approval and evaluation to the final findings.
Pilot schemes play a key role in the development of automated driving technologies. They provide insights under real-world conditions that cannot be gained in a laboratory or through simulations. Technical systems are tested in traffic and their interaction examined, while safety-related aspects and their effect on traffic flow are evaluated. The behaviour of other road users and social acceptance of automated vehicles are also focal points.
Findings from pilot schemes help identify weaknesses, optimise processes, and assess the practical suitability of new technologies.
Legal framework
Under Article 25h of the Road Traffic Act (RTA), FEDRO can grant exemptions for pilot schemes, particularly those involving vehicles without type approval are to be used. The prerequisite is that the scheme must provide new insights into the state of the art or the specific use of automated vehicles and must be directly related to road traffic.
FEDRO supports pilot schemes throughout the process from examining applications and defining safety requirements to evaluation. For public transport schemes, this support is provided jointly with the Federal Office of Transport (FOT). A final report with key findings must be submitted within six months of the scheme’s completion.
Support and basic principles
A FEDRO factsheet defining requirements for applications, operating restrictions and safety measures is available here :
Examples
Since the first pilot scheme in 2015, numerous projects have been implemented in Switzerland, such as self-driving shuttle buses in Sion, delivery robots for the postal service and automated vehicles in urban areas.
An overview of ongoing and completed projects can be found here