Voters of the German state of Baden-Württemberg, home to both Porsche and Mercedes-Benz, have elected the Green Party to power, and that change may end up being felt on the Autobahn. Automotive News reports that one of the promises made by the Greens was to implement a speed cap of 120 km/h (74.5 mph) on stretches of the Autobahn that are currently unrestricted.

According to Mercedes-Benz CEO Dieter Zetsche, speed limits aren't good for business, noting that buyers from other countries view the Autobahn as part of the company's formula for developing high-performing vehicles. "We're well advised to maintain the Autobahn sections that don't have a speed limit," says Zetsche.

The new political leadership doesn't see things that way. Winfried Kretschmann, who could soon be named State Premier, says the Autobahn contributes 30 percent of the area's emissions. On the Green Party's website, Kretschmann points the finger at the transportation, saying that the sector "has to make a contribution of its own to reduce this gas that's harmful to the environment."



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