Fuel is currently relatively cheap. Most motorists would not change their fueling and driving behavior even at significantly higher prices.
Germans have a high pain threshold when it comes to fuel prices. Around 30 percent of motorists would only change their mobility behavior from a liter price of 2 euros, according to a survey by the Dena energy agency. Another 20 percent would also accept a liter price of 2,50 euros. However, around 20 percent would use the car less or switch to a vehicle with alternative drives at 1,70 euros and more.
The survey raises doubts about the effectiveness of the newly introduced carbon price. Since the beginning of the year, a fee of 2 euros has been due for each tonne of CO2 emitted. By 25, the amount should increase to 2025 euros. This made itself felt at the gas station at the turn of the year by a price increase of seven cents per liter of petrol and almost 55 cents for diesel. The federal government puts the annual additional burden of an average car driver at 8 euros.
Most recently, however, a study had forecast a positive effect of the levy on emissions. The economic research institute RWI has calculated a reduction of at least 740.000 tons of CO2 or 0,8 percent. This corresponds to the amount that would be achieved by decommissioning around 360.000 cars.
According to the Dena survey, Germans are generally open to political measures in the transport sector. For 70 percent, the method of choice would be a stronger adjustment of the vehicle tax to CO2 emissions. A significant increase in the fuel price is in favor of 14 percent.