Why this country wants to ban electric cars in winter

Various European countries are worried about the energy supply this winter. Switzerland has even developed measures to prevent a possible blackout. One of them is a temporary ban on the use of electric cars.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is causing price increases on the energy market worldwide. Europe depends on Russia for a large part of its oil and gas supplies. This has been causing major problems since February as sanctions were imposed after the Russian invasion and Russia is no longer a reliable supplier.

Saving measures to survive the winter

Europe needs to get rid of Russian gas at lightning speed, but that will take time. The member states have built up their reserves in recent months and hope to get through the winter months with austerity measures. Switzerland goes a long way in this respect. In order to prevent a power failure, the government has drawn up a plan.

Switzerland wants to ban the use of electric cars

It contains four saving levels that are intended to prevent an interruption in the energy supply. Stages one and two are about turning off heating in common areas and limiting the use of inefficient devices like dryers, saunas and patio heaters.

At levels three and four, the measures go much further. Then, among other things, the use of game consoles, electric cars and streaming services will be banned, as will the mining of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin. Further measures to reduce energy consumption in Switzerland are: a reduced speed limit of 100 km/h and switching off street lighting.

The Swiss government will decide on December 12th

The Swiss government will examine the proposals on December 12. If the emergency levels are introduced, the use of electric cars will not be completely banned in an energy crisis. Driving out with the e-vehicle will then only be permitted for necessary journeys, such as to see a doctor or to work.