The environmental plaque for vehicles with E license plates is no longer required
Image: Kia
At the end of September, the Federal Council approved the abolition of the requirement for environmental plates for vehicles with “E” license plates. Vehicles with E plates can now enter environmental zones without an additional environmental plate. The E plate already serves as clear proof that the vehicle is eligible for such access. It can be applied for at the vehicle registration office.
An environmental zone is marked by traffic signs and additional symbols. The labeling of vehicles with a plate (on the inside of the windshield) and the assignment of the correct plate to the vehicle are regulated by the ordinance on labeling motor vehicles with low pollution emissions. The plate is valid in all environmental zones in Germany.
"With today’s decision, we are eliminating an unnecessary dual labeling system," said a spokesperson from the Federal Environment Ministry. "We protect our environment, uphold our air quality standards, and at the same time reduce unnecessary bureaucracy. This is a relief that makes an immediate difference in everyday life. This is how a modern, efficient, and citizen-friendly state operates."
A change to the 35th Federal Immission Protection Regulation (BImSchV) exempts vehicles with E-plates from the requirement to display an environmental sticker. This would relieve both vehicle owners and authorities of existing bureaucratic tasks and costs, according to the Environment Ministry.
In total, over six million euros could be saved annually. The environmental standards for clean air remain unchanged. To further reduce air pollution, many German cities have established environmental zones where only vehicles with the appropriate stickers are allowed to enter.
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Thomas Langenbucher is an expert in electromobility with professional experience in the automotive industry and finance sector. Since 2011, he has been covering electric vehicles, sustainable technologies, and mobility solutions for ecomento.de. Learn more.
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