Foreigners to pay for Autobahn usage

Germany’s Autobahn is known the world over by petrolheads and enthusiasts as a road with no limits. While there are speed limits posted on all roads, some sections of the highway only have a 130kmph ‘advisory’ speed limit which, based on surveys, is violated more than 20 per cent of the time. However, from 2016, foreign tourists will have to pay for the privilage of using these iconic highways.

Irrespective of the car or motorcycle, a ten-day permit costs Rs 820 (10 Euro), while a yearly pass costs just Rs 8,200. In comparison, 60 minutes on the Buddh International Circuit can set a person back by Rs 3,000–4,000. The 165km Yamuna Expressway, an international standard highway, connects Delhi and Agra, and costs Rs 320 one-way for a four-wheeler, costing Rs 0.52 per km. Germany’s autobahn network has a total length of about 12,845km, which means that the cost per km is a measly amount.

Even the Germans will have to shell out the extra cash to use the Autobahn but the cost will be off-set thanks to a cut in vehicle tax. Countries like the Czech Republic and Austria do have similar schemes for foreign motorists.

So a flight to Germany and a ride on the autobahn, still worth it? We think so