2021
Revolutionary invention
A new development could revolutionise driving with hydrogen. Previous hydrogen drives are not practical, especially for small vehicles. The so-called Powerpaste solves the space problem and could soon provide clean cities as a drive for electric vehicles with fuel cells.
France fails in the climate fight
The country faces a 100 million euro fine for excessive air pollution. A two-month deadline set by the European Commission to reduce nitrogen oxide pollution passed unsuccessfully yesterday. At the same time, a French court ruled that the state was partly to blame for the country's climate damage.
Low emission zone in case of polluted sea air
The situation for car drivers in France is becoming increasingly confusing. Now Bordeaux is also to get a temporary environmental zone. In the city by the sea, however, it is not only traffic that causes high particulate pollution. The sea also contributes to the air pollution peaks.
Air pollution: Health risk no. 1
With about 4.2 million deaths annually worldwide no other environmental problem kills people as frequently as air pollution. Particulate matter, nitrogen oxides and ozone affect the human body in many different ways and can cause serious physical and psychological problems.
Low emission zones: Postponed is not abandoned
Many rule tightenings in the European low emission zones will not take place this year as planned. The Corona pandemic has shifted the political focus to other matters. Moreover, the limit values were complied with in many places. After the pandemic, however, the introduction of stricter rules will probably hit European motorists with full force.
E-cars as climate saviours?
There is great hope in electric cars: to remain mobile without harming the environment or the health of others. But can the electric car deliver what it promises? Scepticism is growing. Here is an overview.
Can e-fuels save combustion engines?
The new Euro 7 standard will effectively ban combustion engines from 2025. A synthetic fuel that is climate-friendly and yet can be used for internal combustion engines is supposed to save the traditional engine. But production and costs are causing problems.
Only zero-emission trucks by 2040
The truck industry criticises the EU's targets as too lax. They themselves want to put 200,000 zero-emission trucks on the roads by 2030 and are calling for tougher rules for diesel trucks. The targets are ambitious, but possible with the help of the EU, which is letting the industry down.
USA plans e-car revolution
The new US president has announced a new era for American carmakers. He is fully committed to the conversion to e-cars. In contrast to the EU, however, he does not want to initiate this with driving bans for internal combustion engines, but rather promote e-cars through subsidies and incentives.
Digital monitoring of environmental zones
A new law is to make it possible to scan number plates in Germany to prosecute criminal offences. This could also lead to digital monitoring of vehicles in German low emission zones. Other EU states are leading the way.