Despite the International Energy Agency (IEA) recommending that speed limits on highways be reduced by at least 10 km/h due to the ongoing fossil energy crisis, Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schneider (CDU) has publicly opposed the measure.
The CDU politician stated to “Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland” that the government should not act as “everywhere the nanny” explaining what is good and proper. Consequently, he considers speed limits unnecessary.
Instead, Schneider trusts the common sense of the public. He argued that those who still do not understand that driving at 180 or 200 km/h burns fuel much faster than driving at 120 or 130 km/h-thereby draining the wallet even faster-are beyond help.
When questioned about considering drastic steps such as driving bans, car-free Sundays, or permanent speed limits, Schneider replied that there are smarter and less smart options, and these measures must always be weighed. He concluded by suggesting that if fuel prices rise, everyone will notice it on their own.
The IEA, meanwhile, is urging governments to adopt targeted, short-term measures to curb the demand for fossil fuels. Specifically, the agency proposes promoting public transport, and encouraging the purchase or leasing of electric cars, heat pumps, and modern electric cooktops, particularly for households with limited incomes.
