Germany may put a speed limit its world famous autobahn network highways. The autobahn has a total length about 12,996 kilometers. There is no speed limit it for many types of vehicles. However, there are limits some built-up areas, spots that are accident-prone, or roads that are construction or undergoing repairs. On the parts the network on which there is no limit, there is an advisory speed limit 130 kilometers per hour (80 mph). Germany's government may now put a speed limit all parts of the autobahn. This is because Germany has to meet fuel emission targets set the European Union. It wants to reduce the damage done to the environment by cars that drive fast.
Many drivers Germany are unhappy a possible speed limit the autobahn. They do not want the 130kph limit, even though that is normal other EU countries. Some politicians say the proposed speed limit will never get passed Germany's government. One politician, Ulrich Lange, said: "I don't think the suggestion a speed limit is practical." One of Germany's best-selling newspapers Bild Zeitung disagreed the speed limit. It wrote: "Our autobahn roads are a symbol freedom. 'Tested German autobahn' is a quality seal. There are enough speed limits." Germany could face big EU fines if it does not reduce its greenhouse gas emissions.
