The imposition of a controversial toll on Germany’s Autobahn network has been given the go-ahead by the German government.
The charges will effectively be for foreign users of the Autobahn as German residents will be able to offset the costs against their tax.
The toll badge will cost up to €130 (£103) a year, depending on a vehicle's age, engine size and emissions. Motorbikes, electric cars, adapted cars for the disabled and ambulances will all be exempt.
The toll should come into effect in 2016, but the European Commission has already warned that it may be discriminatory.
A letter from the EU Transport Commissioner is believed to point out that the offset ability for German drivers may discriminate against foreigners. This would be in violation of EU law.
The plan, with some details still to be decided, gives foreign drivers the option of buying a 10-day toll badge for €10 or a two-month one for €20.
Transport Minister Alexander Dobrindt said the new toll could generate €500m annually to spend on road infrastructure.
Comments
On Portuguese motorways it would be easy to clock up €20 on one journey.