Asger Risom
The Czech Republic will soon become the first EU country to trial a 150 km/h motorway speed limit. The move has stirred debate across Europe, where speed rules vary widely.
The Czech Republic will soon become the first EU country to trial a 150 km/h motorway speed limit. The move has stirred debate across Europe, where speed rules vary widely.
Trial Begins in September
From the end of September, drivers will be allowed to test the new limit on a 50 km stretch of the D3 motorway between Tábor and České Budějovice.
Conditional Higher Speed
The current 130 km/h cap remains standard. The 150 km/h limit will only apply under ideal conditions: dry roads, good weather, clear traffic, and no roadworks.
How It Will Work
Electronic signs will display the higher limit when safe. The system, controlled by the National Transport Information Center, will adjust speed restrictions in real time.
Cost and Scope of the Project
The test section will cost 55 million Czech crowns to implement. If successful, the higher limit could be expanded to major routes like the D1 and D11 motorways.
European Neighbours’ Experience
Austria previously tested 140 km/h on parts of its motorway network but scrapped it in 2020 due to increased CO₂ emissions. Other countries have moved in the opposite direction.
Dutch Speed Reductions
In the Netherlands, top daytime speeds were cut to 100 km/h in 2020 to reduce emissions. Some sections have since returned to 130 km/h under certain conditions.
Germany’s No-Limit Tradition
Germany remains an outlier, with no blanket motorway speed limit. While some advocate for restrictions, others defend the tradition of unlimited driving.
A First for the EU
If the Czech trial proves successful, it could pave the way for higher motorway speed limits elsewhere in Europe — but the debate between safety, environment, and driver freedom is far from settled.
