Against the Odds: Switzerland and the Emergence of NGVs.

The title of this paper, “Against the Odds - Switzerland and the Emergence of NGV’s”, written some time ago reflects an expectation based on test results and considerable market interest. Unfortunately at the time of writing Switzerland is still awaiting the emergence of natural gas vehicles. This delay has been both frustrating and expensive, it is hoped that the experiences in Switzerland can help her European neighbours to avoid the same mistakes. The primary obstruction to natural gas vehicles in Switzerland is a legal one, based on well intentioned laws and over restrictive application of these laws. This paper sets out to cover the spectrum of the natural gas activities within Switzerland as well as outlining the important factors relating to emissions laws and test cales and how these factors effect light duty natural gas vehicles. It is intended that this paper will alert the reader of a potentially catastrophic situation that is currently threatening the European natural gas vehicle market.