Easily Transport Your Bike: Your Red Control Plate with Carvolution

In addition to the classic white license plates, red control plates have been increasingly seen on Swiss roads for about three years now. They immediately catch the eye and often cause confusion – but they have a clearly defined purpose.

In this article, you’ll learn what the red control plate is for and how it helps you kick off your next summer bike tour in a relaxed way.

What is the Red Control Plate for Bike Racks?

The red control plate is an optional additional plate available for bike racks since March 1, 2022. It was introduced because with rear-mounted racks and hatchback racks, the rear license plate is usually obscured. Until now, it had to be removed from the car and awkwardly attached to the bike rack each time.

The red plate provides a convenient solution: it is mounted directly on the bike rack, while the regular plate can stay on the car. To prevent misuse, the additional plate is colored red and may only be used together with the vehicle’s standard pair of control plates.

Of course, if you prefer not to use an extra plate, you can still mount your rear plate directly on the bike rack as before.

How Does It Work at Carvolution?

Simplicity is our principle – which is why we take care of registering your new car in your home canton. So you don’t have to worry about the control plate at all. And if you’re attached to your current personal plate, we’ll gladly keep it – provided your canton allows it. You’ll find all the information about when and how your control plate can be used with a car subscription here.

The same applies to the red additional plate: we make it as easy as possible for you.

Just let us know before the vehicle handover – we’ll order the plate for you and include it with your car. The one-time additional cost is CHF 40.–.

And if you decide later on to use a bike rack, we’ll gladly send you the red plate by mail.

Which Bike Rack Is Right for You?

There are basically three main types of bike racks: the hatchback rack, the roof rack, and the rear-mounted rack.

The hatchback rack is usually easy to mount and doesn’t require any special vehicle equipment – it attaches directly to the hatch and is great for occasional trips with a bike.

It’s different with the other two options:

• A rear-mounted rack requires a tow hitch, as it is fixed there and particularly stable – ideal for longer trips and multiple bikes.
• A roof rack, on the other hand, is mounted on a suitable roof fixture, such as roof rails or factory-installed fixing points. This option is especially popular if you want to keep the trunk free or are already using another type of carrier.

You can easily check here which vehicles in the car subscription come with the necessary equipment – so nothing stands in the way of your next bike adventure.

If you have any questions or uncertainties, we’re happy to help – just give us a call at +41 62 531 25 25 or book a non-binding consultation.

We wish you a great ride – whether by car or on your bike.