From April 1, 2022, low-speed e-bikes (light motorcycles according to Art. 18 Bst. B VTS, pedal assistance up to 25 km/h or max. 20 km/h in motor-only mode) - i.e. also e-mountain bikes - must have a white light pointing forwards and a red, static light pointing backwards (Art. 178a para. 1 VTS). According to Art. 178a para. 1 VTS, the lights on slow e-bikes must already be permanently attached. The Federal Roads Office FEDRO also considers lights with click fasteners that are removable to be permanently attached lights.

And this is the new regulation on the operation of lights: As of April 1, 2022, lights must now also be switched on when riding during the day. Although a rear light must be fitted during the day while riding as before, it only has to be on at night and in poor visibility if it can be switched on separately. The regulation can be viewed here: https://www.fedlex.admin.ch/eli/cc/1995/4425_4425_4425/de

Thomas Rohrbach from FEDRO assesses the new regulation based on his own experience: "Especially on paths that are intended for both pedestrians and cyclists, it helps the weaker road users. I'm thinking here of people on foot, first recognizing the oncoming e-bike and then estimating the approach speed when a light is on ahead." Rohrbach goes on to explain that on trails, hikers can spot e-mountain bikers earlier by means of lights and react to them before a conflict or dangerous situation arises.

Originally, the Federal Council had also proposed making helmets compulsory in 2020 when the mandatory light requirement came into force. This change in the law to make helmets compulsory was not implemented.