Why Germans don’t drive as fast as they can on motorways

[EUROPE] Germany is one of the few countries where certain stretches of its motorways, known as the Autobahn, do not have a speed limit. This has been a point of pride and curiosity for both residents and visitors. After all, if you have the opportunity to drive as fast as your car will go, why wouldn’t you take it?

Interestingly, despite the allure of speed, Germans don't drive as fast as they are legally allowed. In fact, new research shows that the majority of drivers prefer to stay well below the potential top speed of their vehicles, even on sections of road with no restrictions.

According to a study by the German Economic Institute (IW), the average speed on open motorway sections in North Rhine-Westphalia was just 113.5 km/h, far less than the maximum speeds many cars can achieve. In fact, 83% of drivers maintained an average speed below the 130 km/h mark, the suggested "safe" speed. Even more surprisingly, only 1% of drivers exceeded 160 km/h, even when weather conditions were ideal.

So, why don’t Germans take full advantage of this unique driving freedom?

1. Economic Factors: Rising Costs of Driving

One of the primary reasons for this behavior could be the rising costs of operating a vehicle. In recent years, petrol prices have been steadily climbing, which discourages fast driving. As noted by industry experts, "an increased number of roadworks and rising petrol prices are putting the brakes on would-be motorway speedsters". With the economic pressures of higher fuel prices, many drivers are more focused on fuel efficiency than on speed.

The financial strain also influences the overall attitude toward driving fast. When fuel prices rise, the cost of speeding becomes less appealing, especially for those with longer commutes or fewer resources.

2. Safety Concerns

While the Autobahn’s absence of speed limits is celebrated for offering the thrill of driving at high speeds, there are significant safety concerns involved. Fast driving inherently comes with higher risks, and many drivers opt to stay within a comfortable range to reduce the likelihood of accidents. The fact is, the faster a vehicle goes, the less time a driver has to react to sudden obstacles or changes in road conditions.

Furthermore, research indicates that the number of roadworks and construction zones on the Autobahn is steadily increasing, which requires drivers to slow down. This not only promotes safety but also highlights the reality that even the famed fast lanes of Germany are increasingly being restricted, at least temporarily.

3. Cultural Attitudes Toward Driving

There’s also a cultural aspect at play. Germans are known for their precise engineering, which extends to their driving habits. While they have the freedom to drive fast, many opt to prioritize stability and efficiency over speed. Germans generally tend to drive with caution and prefer staying within the bounds of what’s considered practical.

Despite the allure of speed, there’s a preference for order and a respect for road laws that goes beyond the legal minimums. As the study conducted by the German Economic Institute revealed, the average speed was closer to 113.5 km/h rather than a more reckless pace, suggesting that Germans appreciate the thrill of speed but prefer to balance it with practicality and safety.

4. Environmental Concerns

Germany’s green movement is another factor contributing to a reluctance to drive fast. As the country shifts towards more eco-conscious practices, the question of emissions and environmental sustainability has become more pressing. Many Germans are aware of the environmental impact of high-speed driving, particularly in terms of fuel consumption and carbon emissions.

In fact, public opinion in Germany seems to be shifting towards the implementation of speed limits as part of broader efforts to cut emissions. "55% of members of the country's huge ADAC automobile club are in favor of a blanket speed limit, with 40% against." This growing support for a speed limit, even on the famed Autobahn, reflects the increasing recognition of the need for environmental stewardship.

5. Technological Advancements and Car Design

Another factor that could explain why Germans don't always drive at top speeds on the Autobahn is the evolution of car technology. While many vehicles in Germany can easily exceed speeds of 250 km/h, the focus in recent years has shifted to fuel-efficient and eco-friendly models, which are not necessarily designed for high-speed performance. For example, most zero-emission cars can’t exceed 200 km/h, which further limits the opportunity for drivers to take advantage of the open roads.

Moreover, modern vehicles are designed with features that promote safe driving, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance, but these features often encourage a more cautious driving style. "Most zero-emission cars cannot exceed 200 km/h," and with the growing popularity of such vehicles, high-speed driving is less common.

6. Public Opinion on Speed Limits

The debate over whether to impose speed limits on the Autobahn has been ongoing for years, with no clear resolution in sight. Public opinion is divided, with significant portions of the population either for or against the idea. Despite the historical resistance to speed limits, support for a speed cap is increasing, with environmentalists and safety advocates pushing for change.

The fact that "55% of members of the country's huge ADAC automobile club are in favor of a blanket speed limit" reflects a significant shift in public opinion. However, the political climate in Germany remains divided on this issue, with right-wing factions generally opposing the imposition of speed limits, making it unlikely that any drastic changes will occur soon.

7. A Desire for Control and Comfort

Finally, it’s worth considering that many Germans simply prefer to drive at a comfortable pace. Speed is not always associated with enjoyment; for many, driving is about control, comfort, and efficiency rather than pure thrill. The typical German driver may choose to cruise along at a moderate pace because it offers a balance of comfort and control, especially on long drives or during peak traffic times.

The comfort-oriented driving culture also means that the Autobahn is viewed more as a means to get from point A to point B efficiently, rather than as an open stretch for speed enthusiasts to indulge in reckless driving.

While Germany is one of the last countries in the world with stretches of motorway without speed limits, the reality is that most Germans do not take advantage of the opportunity to drive as fast as they can. Whether due to economic factors, safety concerns, environmental issues, or a cultural preference for practical and controlled driving, the majority of drivers choose to maintain a more moderate pace. This may come as a surprise to some, but it highlights the complex relationship between freedom, responsibility, and driving culture in Germany.

As the debate continues over whether or not to impose a national speed limit, the behavior of everyday drivers suggests that the freedom to drive fast may not always be as appealing as it seems, especially when safety, cost, and sustainability come into play.