In Germany, electric vehicles enjoy privileges such as free parking on public roads and access to roads normally restricted to certain vehicles.
Germany is taking strong measures to improve air quality in urban areas. The German government has decided to grant additional privileges to vehicles that emit less CO2, such as electric cars, plug-in hybrids and hydrogen vehicles. This step is part of a broader initiative to promote environmentally conscious driving and reduce harmful emissions.
Vehicles that are eligible for these benefits must have an E-plate for German vehicles or an E-plate for vehicles with a foreign license plate. It is important to note that this new sticker does not replace the green sticker, but is an addition. The sticker must be placed on the rear window of the vehicle.
The benefits of owning an E-plaque are significant and are managed decentrally, meaning that each municipality within Germany can decide for itself which specific benefits they offer. Some of the most notable benefits include free parking during charging or for a set number of hours, access to bus lanes and blue lanes where indicated, and one-way traffic being lifted on some streets for vehicles with an E-plaque.
In addition, the existing green 4 sticker remains relevant, as all vehicles with a Euro 4 emission class or higher are eligible for this. With this sticker, vehicles have access to every German environmental zone.
Drivers of electric vehicles in Europe benefit from numerous benefits that not only make driving more pleasant, but also contribute to a more sustainable environment. Both in Germany and other European countries, electric vehicles enjoy privileges such as free parking on public roads and access to roads normally restricted to certain vehicles. In addition, there are exceptions to certain access restrictions or driving bans.
An essential element for obtaining these benefits is the E-Plakette, a special sticker necessary for electric vehicles registered abroad and bearing no other distinguishing markings. This sticker, which must be affixed to the rear of the vehicle, is provided by the registration authority where the owner applies.
The regulations regarding these privileges are strict. The benefits are only valid in areas where they are clearly indicated. It is also important that, despite the e-plaque, a particulate matter placard is still required for driving in environmental zones, even for vehicles with a foreign electric license plate.
Conditions for obtaining an e-plaque are clearly defined. The vehicle must be fully electric, or in the case of plug-in hybrids, have a purely electric range of at least 40 kilometers. An alternative qualification is CO2 emissions, which may not exceed 50g CO2 per kilometer.
When applying for the e-plaque, it is necessary to submit various documents. These include Part I of the registration certificate and the Certificate of Conformity (COC), which must contain specific details such as vehicle class, type (electric or hybrid), fuel type, combined CO2 emissions and electric range. If this data is missing, proof can also be provided by a manufacturer's certificate or an assessment according to § 21 StVZO.
replace window
It is also important to note that the environmental sticker can only be applied to a window once due to a special adhesive layer. This is an obligation under German law. The costs for administration, production and printing of the sticker are borne by TÜV. When replacing the window, a new order for an environmental sticker must be placed, something that may be covered by your insurance company.
Drivers can visit the website to order a new or replace an existing environmental sticker www.milieusticker.nl. This process has been simplified to make it easier for vehicle owners to comply with regulations and help improve air quality in German cities.
