For some time, the government has mentioned the idea of ​​reducing the maximum speed on highways. In fact, this initiative began several years ago with the introduction of an 80 km/h limit on secondary roads. This decision caused sharp disputes and greatly inflamed the “yellow vest” crisis. However, that has since changed and the government has backed down, allowing departments to restore speed limits to 90km/h if they wish. Today, he plans to target the highway.

Doubtful speed reduction

In fact, the proposition is that on highways, reduce the speed to 110 km/h, instead of 130 km/h. This reduction is expected to reduce emissions while reducing fuel consumption without causing significant time loss. Theoretically it would be only benefits. Indeed? Not according to the researcher who studied this issue and did not reach such a conclusion. According to Christian Gaullier, researcher and CEO of the Toulouse School of Economics (TSE), the benefits would actually be quite limitedespecially compared to the time lost.

What is his conclusion?

He explains: “I did the calculations after making this effort and this change from 130 to 110 km/h has the advantage of improving the energy efficiency of the engines. We drive more kilometers per liter of gasoline. But it is very weak. We gain little in autonomy and CO2 emissions, regarding lost time”. According to him, in travel time will increase by 20% in average, which is still significant. “When you value time, the environmental benefit and the gain in purchasing power far outweighs the cost of the time spent.”

Read also:

• Radars: Summary of all existing types!
• Turret radar: for what offenses can it be fined?
• Radar: How to make sure you’ve been asked?