CO2 tax, environmental bonus for electric cars, mask requirement: a lot will change for drivers from 2022. Here is an overview of the upcoming changes in the new year.
The year 2022 brings various changes with it. Motorists should also pay attention to a few things. The gray or “pink” rag, the old paper license, will no longer be an issue in the future. All driver’s licenses that were issued before January 19, 2013 must be gradually exchanged for forgery-proof check cards by 2033. Those born between 1953 and 1958 must have done this by January 19, 2022.
Due to the corona situation, there may be longer waiting times and delays when applying. The Conference of Transport Ministers has therefore proposed that no fines be imposed until July 19, 2022. Drivers affected should nevertheless quickly get a new driver’s license. The new EU uniform driving license costs 25 euros and is valid for 15 years; a violation of the regulation costs ten euros.
CO2 tax and bonus for electric car drivers
As of January 1st, the CO2 tax will rise from 25 cents per tonne of carbon dioxide emitted to 30 cents. This has an effect on fuel prices: According to the ADAC, the prices for gasoline and diesel are likely to rise by around 1.5 cents per liter for the new year.
The federal government has extended the environmental bonus for electric cars, which was limited to the end of 2021. Owners of plug-in hybrids receive a maximum subsidy of 6750 euros, provided that the emissions of their vehicle are no more than 50 grams of CO2 per kilometer or the minimum electrical range is 60 kilometers. This increases the prescribed range. Until the end of the year it will be 40 kilometers.
Owners of all-electric cars can benefit from the greenhouse gas reduction quota (GHG quota) law, which will come into force in 2022. The GHG quota obliges oil companies to further reduce CO2 emissions from next year. Owners of electric cars can sell their CO2 savings and collect around 250 euros per year and electric vehicle. This requires digital registration with a service provider who resells the CO2 savings to oil companies that are subject to quota.
2022 brings a mask requirement in the first-aid kit
Another change, however, affects all drivers: In future, you will have to carry masks with you in the first-aid kit. According to the new DIN standard for first-aid kits, two mouth and nose covers must be included. It is still unclear whether and when the law will actually take effect.
From January 1, 2022, the reversal of the burden of proof for dealer purchases will be extended from six to twelve months. Only one year after buying the car does the buyer have to prove that there was a defect or damage from the start. In addition, from July 2022, new vehicles must have certain assistance systems for greater safety when they are registered for vehicle type. The EU regulation then stipulates, among other things, an intelligent speed assistant that warns the driver when the speed limit is exceeded, reversing, lane keeping and emergency braking assistants, drowsiness warnings and an interface for alcohol immobilizers.
Sources:,,, with material from dpa
Source From: Stern
I am a 24-year-old writer and journalist who has been working in the news industry for the past two years. I write primarily about market news, so if you’re looking for insights into what’s going on in the stock market or economic indicators, you’ve come to the right place. I also dabble in writing articles on lifestyle trends and pop culture news.
