Customers must be patient to obtain a Swisspass card. Due to a shortage of microchips, the wait can last up to two months. This problem could affect up to 50,000 public transport subscription customers.
The Swisspass is particularly affected by the shortage of chips because two semiconductors are integrated into it.
The problem affects approximately 1% of all subscription holders. The people most affected are new customers and those whose subscription needs to be replaced, a spokesperson for the Swisspass Alliance said on Saturday, confirming information from Tages-Anzeiger.
The message received by a SBB user when ordering a Swisspass card. [RTS]Delivery problems got worse last summer. The Swisspass Alliance estimates that the situation should ease at the beginning of next year. Until then, there is a transitional solution on paper.
3 million half-fare and 430,000 GA
In 2015, the Swisspass replaced the general season ticket and the half-fare. The SwissPass Alliance brings together 250 transport companies and 17 fare communities. In addition to public transport, the card allows you to use partner services, such as access to car sharing or charging ski passes.
According to the spokesperson for the Swisspass Alliance, almost three million half-price season tickets and 430,000 general season tickets are currently in circulation.
In almost all electronic products
Semiconductors are found in almost all electronic products, for example in cards, but also in smartphones, computers, cars or even medical devices.
During the coronavirus pandemic, a shortage caused price hikes and problems in delivery chains. Production capacities are mainly in Taiwan.
ats/oxen