German transport infrastructure and policy debates

German Transport Minister Steffen Bilger has addressed various challenges regarding the nation’s transport infrastructure and funding. Initially, Bilger ruled out the immediate introduction of a car toll, stating it is not part of his current mandate or the coalition agreement. He noted that previous attempts to implement such a system were ‘annoying’ and had ‘burnt’ the debate in Germany.

Subsequently, Bilger linked political dissatisfaction, specifically the CDU’s performance in the Saxony-Anhalt state election, to public frustration over transport issues. He described the current state of the railway system as ‘completely inadequate,’ citing insufficient investment and ambitious goals that ‘overwhelmed’ the network. To remedy this, the Minister highlighted the use of special funds for modernization and planning acceleration laws, setting a target for 70 percent of long-distance trains to achieve punctuality by 2029.

Expanding on rail policy, Bilger acknowledged significant public frustration regarding Deutsche Bahn and is advocating for the reintroduction of family seat reservations, a service discontinued in June 2025, following a petition with over 128,000 supporters.

Regarding road policy, Bilger rejected the implementation of a general speed limit on German autobahns. He argued that such a limit would increase social division by being perceived as a restriction of freedom. He also expressed doubt regarding the potential for significant CO2 savings through speed limits, suggesting that the rise of electromobility is a more effective path toward meeting the country's 2045 climate goals.