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.

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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.