Germans favor environment over autobahn speed

An initial report out earlier in the week about Germany and the proposed speed limits on the autobahn came as a surprise to me because while German auto manufacturers have a poor environment record and are known for foot dragging on the issue, it has always been my impression (as an outsider and visitor) that the Germans were very environmentally aware. I always think of the green rooftops around Munich, which is one of their plans to combat pollution that gets stuck in the air due to the mountains and was glad when our mayor in Paris proposed a similar program.

The initial reports earlier in the week noted heavy opposition to the proposed speed limits, calling it an "untouchable right" for Germans. It's fun to try driving at 200kph (125mph) and the Germans are excellent, not to mention serious drivers, but not at the expense of the environment. Later in the week a poll came out showing that the majority of the German public supports speed limits. Now that is the Germany that I know.