Almost every second new car an all-wheeler
AUTO SWITZERLAND Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein are and remain the "4×4 kings" of Europe. In September, 24,520 new passenger cars were registered - 12,153 of which are all-wheel-drive vehicles. This represents a record rate of 49.6 percent. At the same time, diesel demand fell to a market share of 33.9 percent in September, both effects having a negative impact on the CO2 balance [...]
This means a record rate of 49.6 percent. At the same time, diesel demand fell to a market share of 33.9 percent in September, both effects having a negative impact on the importers' carbon footprint.
Overall market slightly in the red
The overall market slipped minimally into negative territory as a result of the slight decline in September. In the first three quarters of the current year, 231,483 new passenger cars were registered, just 300 units or 0.3 percent short of the previous year's level at the same time.
All-wheel high
After nine months, the figures show a four-wheel drive high of 46.4 percent (2016: 43.5 percent) and a diesel low of 36.7 percent market share (2016: 39.4 percent). This combination presents a double CO2 challenge for auto-schweiz members. The 4×4 drive ensures higher consumption and CO2 values due to higher weight and more required propulsive power. The low diesel content of the all-wheel drive, in turn, leads to a similar effect.
Alternative only slightly up
The gasoline engine, which is around a quarter less efficient, is the main beneficiary of the restraint shown by the diesel engine. With a market share of 58.0 percent after nine months, the petrol engine has reached long-forgotten heights (2016: 55.9 percent). The growth in alternative drive systems to 5.3 percent market share is significantly lower (2016: 4.7 percent).
Appeal
Andreas Burgener, Director of auto-schweiz, comments: "We have to stop talking diesel out of existence - otherwise we risk a CO2 debacle. There is definitely no need for diesel driving bans in Switzerland. That's why no one need fear massive depreciation if they buy a diesel today."
