The German cabinet has passed the fifth Federal Road Toll Act (Bundesfernstraßenmautgesetz). Starting January 1, 2019, there will be an increase in the tolls imposed on heavy goods vehicles (HGV).
The toll rates will be based on the maximum permissible weight as well as the number of axles for vehicles surpassing 18 tons (16.3 tonnes). Transport Minister Andreas Scheuer said the imposition of higher tolls on heavier vehicles will have a greater impact on highways and argued that it would lead to fairer tariffs.
In addition to the adaptation of toll rates, the legislation will also see an extension of the toll roads. The yearly increase of toll income resulting from both initiatives is expected to amount to EUR2.5 billion (USD2.9 billion).
According to CLECAT (the European association for forwarding, transport, logistics and Customs services), the transport and logistics industry has expressed serious concerns about the rise in toll rates and extension of the toll roads in Germany.
The legislation is expected to result in heavy burdens for the transport industry.
www.clecat.org
