Long truck overtaking maneuvers and the debate about separate lanes for electric cars – these are two topics that came across my smartphone last weekend. Topic No. 1: Overtaking trucks! Often referred to as “Elephant race“, they are a known source of frustration, especially on two-lane highways. At the same time, No. 2: a controversial BMW idea a dedicated lane for electric cars on the highway for discussions. But what is behind it?
Elephant races & electric tracks
Who does not know it: You are driving relaxed on the highway when suddenly two trucks start to overtake each other. The problem? The overtaking maneuvers can minutes because trucks can only pass each other slowly due to their legal maximum speed of 80 to 100 km/h. However, the road traffic regulations stipulate that overtaking is only permitted if the difference at least 10 km/h is. If the process takes longer than 45 seconds, face fines. And truck drivers who are repeatedly involved in such elephant races must also expect higher penalties and even driving bans.
BMW's controversial idea: The exclusive lane for electric cars
And while truck drivers are often criticized for their slow overtaking maneuvers, BMW is thinking out loud about a completely different solution: A dedicated lane for electric cars on German motorways. Sorry? The idea is intended to increase the attractiveness of electric cars and accelerate the transition to emission-free transport. But the proposal is controversial. Many see it as a (justified) disadvantage for the majority who still drive with combustion engines. Implementation would encounter countless practical difficulties, especially on two-lane highways.
Electromobility and its privileges
But BMW's proposal is not just about the lane on the motorway. Other considerations include a privileged access to inner cities and free parking for electric carsThe measures are intended to promote the switch to e-mobility and pave the way for the planned phase-out of combustion engines in 2035. But it remains questionable whether such incentives are sufficient to convince the general public. I am certainly convinced by the arguments CAN'T!
A look into the future
The challenges on German roads, whether due to slow truck overtaking maneuvers or the introduction of special e-lanes on the highway, reflect the larger questions that arise in the course of the transport transition. The future of transport therefore remains exciting, and it remains to be seen whether concepts such as the e-lane will prevail and whether elephant races on the new lane will also cause discontent.
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Maria Holler
Maria Holler - Maria has been contributing her expertise in the area of "Laws & Legal" to tuningblog.eu since 2014. As a lawyer with a passion for the automotive world, she combines her specialist knowledge with her interest in tuning and vehicle adaptations. She ensures that readers are always informed about the latest legal framework. In her free time, she is intensively involved with legal regulations in road traffic, which makes her an indispensable resource for the tuning community.
