The end of plug-in hybrids is approaching
High subsidies for plug-in hybrids will soon only be available for vehicles that can drive at least 60 km in pure electric mode. This could mean an end to the hype surrounding these vehicles in Germany.
High subsidies for plug-in hybrids will soon only be available for vehicles that can drive at least 60 km in pure electric mode. This could mean an end to the hype surrounding these vehicles in Germany.
Last year, nitrogen oxide levels in the Neckar valley remained below the limit value for the first time. The plaintiffs, who have been campaigning for better air for years, see this as only a partial success, however. The readings could, however, have an impact on driving bans in the city.
Only five days after tightening the rules in the Lyon Low Emission Zone, a class action lawsuit has been filed against the measures. The distinction between private individuals and traders disregards the equal rights of citizens. This could mean the end of the tightening in one of the dirtiest cities in France.
The free public transport service and the expansion of the light rail system make the use of public transport more attractive. Other offers help citizens to leave their cars behind. Driving bans are therefore unnecessary.
Due to the ban on the sale of firecrackers and fireworks, the fine dust pollution on New Year's Eve will probably be significantly lower this year than in previous years. Environmental organisations would like to see a permanent ban in order to reduce the harmful emissions.
The CDU parliamentary group wants an immediate end to diesel driving bans. The environmental authority is reviewing the measure first, but is also evaluating some road sections for new driving bans. At the same time, more and more streets are being declared car-free zones.
In order to avoid diesel driving bans, the city on the Main is introducing a 40 km/h speed zone in the entire city centre. If this does not have any effect, unpopular driving bans may be imposed in the middle of next year.
In all 20 arrondissements within the city motorway, the speed will be reduced in the new year. This is to improve air quality, but also to reduce noise pollution and traffic accidents.
The current lockdown leads to a decrease in mobility of up to one fifth compared to the previous year. For such situations with low traffic volume, temporary environmental zones could also make sense in Germany.
The measure for better air, controversial in Germany, is becoming increasingly popular in France. Grenoble has had the country's first eco-lane since October. The lane in Lyon has been active since yesterday.