What is leasing, and how does it work?
Leasing is a financial arrangement that allows individuals or businesses to use an asset in exchange for regular, mostly monthly, payments. During the leasing, the customer does not own the asset. These assets are not only cars. Especially for business, equipment is often financed through a lease.
In the context of car leasing, the process works by the leasing company purchasing a car and leasing it to the customer, who pays a monthly rate to the leasing company. The monthly rate is defined by the length of the contract, the annual kilometre allowance, the down payment, interest rate, and residual value of the vehicle.
Throughout the lease term, the customer gains the right to use the car but does not own it. The lease agreement also outlines responsibilities for maintenance and the obligation to take out full coverage / full-casco insurance. In some cases, such as with Gowago’s All-in-one packages, insurance, maintenance as well as other services can be included in the monthly rate.
At the end of the lease period, the customer typically has the option to return the car, extend the lease, or make an offer to purchase the car.
Leasing is the most popular way of financing a car in Switzerland. Find out more on the intricacies and get tips on leasing by consulting our guide: How Does Leasing Work?