Touring Club Suisse

Touring Club Suisse

Founded	1 September 1896
Fate	Representing the interests and providing services in the area of mobility
Headquarters	Vernier , Switzerland
Key people	Peter Goetschi (President) Jürg Wittwer (General Director)
Members	1.5 million (2022)

The Touring Club Suisse (TCS) is a Swiss non-profit association representing the interests of motorists in Switzerland. It has approximately 1.5 million members^{[citation needed]}, making it a significant organization in the field of mobility within the country. TCS provides various services to its members, including insurance, road assistance, and driving courses.^[1] Additionally, the organization operates a number of campgrounds across Switzerland. TCS is also involved in conducting crash tests for mobility-related objects and participates in political lobbying on issues pertaining to mobility.

Origin and structure

The TCS was established in Geneva on September 1, 1896, by a group of 205 cyclists, primarily to promote bicycle tourism.^[2] Today, it continues to operate as a non-profit organization, with its headquarters located in Vernier, Geneva. Structurally, the TCS comprises 23 regional sections along with a central Club. Each section contributes a representative to the Board of Directors, which oversees the organization's broader activities. The management of the Central Club's day-to-day operations is the responsibility of an appointed director. The Delegate Assembly, representing the entire membership of the TCS, functions as its highest decision-making body.

Activities

Services Offered

• Roadside Assistance and Helpdesk: Recognized for its 220 yellow patrol vehicles, TCS offers a helpdesk reachable at 0800 140 140 within Switzerland.
• ETI Booklet and Insurance Services: This travel insurance covers a wide range of aspects, including breakdown and legal protection, baggage and cancellation insurance.
• Legal Protection Service: Started in 1958, it offers support in private and motorist legal issues, real estate, and internet-related matters.

Safety and Testing

• Annual Testing Activities: TCS undertakes yearly testing of various products and vehicles, such as child seats, tires, and driving systems, sharing the results publicly.
• Road Safety Initiatives: Actively involved in road safety, TCS produces educational materials and participates in nationwide prevention campaigns.

Collaboration and recognition

• Authority Partnerships and Expertise: TCS collaborates with government authorities on road safety and mobility and is a respected voice in public consultations.
• International Affiliation: A member of the International Automobile Federation (FIA) since 1998.

Publications and Media

• Touring Magazine: Distributed monthly in French, German, and Italian to TCS members, with editorial offices based in Bern.

Facilities

• Technical Centers and Campsites: TCS maintains 21 centers and 29 campsites throughout Switzerland.
• Driving Training Tracks: The club operates 15 tracks designed for driving training.

References

• François Antoniazzi, Der Touring Club Schweiz im Spiegel von 100 Ereignissen 1896–1996, TCS Publishing, Geneva, 1996.
• Joseph Britschgi, Manuel d'enseignement de la circulation, TCS Publishing, Geneva, 1946.

External links

• Official website