German government to neuter Autobahn drivers

'Left Lane Dicks' get fined on the German Autobahn

The German government is considering adopting a range of draft proposals about the reduction of environmental damage caused by transport, which could result into the end of the de-restricted parts of their highways, more widely known as Autobahns.

The National Platform on the Future of Mobility, the committee responsible for coming up with the proposals recommended many things, including fuel tax hikes and EV quotas to help Germany meet EU’s emissions targets, Reuters reports.

Germany’s transport emissions have not fallen since 1990, making them a big target for reductions. However the government appears to be torn between acting for the protection of the environment and the need to protect the country’s automotive industry. In addition, it could face heavy fines from the EU if it fails to reduce its emissions.

Among the draft proposals is a motorway speed limit of 130km/h (80.7mph) and increased fuel taxes from 2023, along with ending tax breaks for diesel vehicles and imposing quotas for electric and hybrid cars. According to the committee, these measures could deliver half of the greenhouse gas emissions cuts that are required.

The committee hasn’t finalized its proposals yet, as the final report will be given at the end of March. The government is expected to incorporate this report into a climate-change law.

The National Platform on the Future of Mobility appears well aware that many of its proposals might prove unpopular with German drivers as well as a number of politicians.

“Not every instrument and every measure will be accepted," reads the draft report. “It will take political deftness, diplomatic skill and a willingness to compromise to achieve the climate change goals." Carscoops