Audi CEO Markus Duesmann has called for car-free days and a universal speed limit in response to the current energy crisis. Climate protection groups in Germany have long been advocating for a speed limit on highways to reduce emissions from the transportation sector. In March 2022, the ACE Auto Club Europa also called for a speed limit of 100 km/h on all highways due to the energy crisis. Duesmann believes that a speed limit would be a sensible response to the ongoing energy crisis. He also suggested that car-free days could be reintroduced to help people adjust to the current situation.
Duesmann has observed that many people have already voluntarily adjusted their driving habits due to financial constraints. He believes that a speed limit would encourage more people to drive slower and save fuel. However, he also cautioned against relying solely on financial incentives to change behavior. Duesmann suggested that car-free days could be a useful way to encourage people to rethink their lifestyles and adapt to changing circumstances. He even mentioned that he would ride his bike on a closed highway on a Sunday.
However, not everyone agrees with Duesmann’s proposals. Hildegard Müller, President of the Association of the German Automotive Industry (VDA), believes that people are already aware of how to save money and do not need further instructions. The FDP is also against a speed limit and car-free days in Germany. Despite the high electricity prices that could potentially end the electric car boom, Duesmann remains optimistic about the future of electric vehicles. He believes that the company’s strategy will not change due to the current energy crisis.
