The 100 km/h Rule: What You Need to Know About Trailers
If you're driving with a trailer, you've probably asked yourself: How fast am I allowed to go? By default, the maximum speed limit for vehicles with trailers in Germany is 80 km/h. However, under certain conditions, it is possible to increase this limit to 100 km/h. In this guide, you’ll learn everything important about the 100 km/h regulation, what requirements must be met, and how to properly equip your trailer.
- Requirements for the 100 km/h Regulation: For a car-trailer combination to be allowed to travel at 100 km/h on German roads, several conditions must be met:
- Suitable trailer: The trailer must be designed for operation at 100 km/h. This must be confirmed by a manufacturer’s certificate or a subsequent technical inspection.
- Permissible total weight: The permissible total weight of the braked trailer must not exceed 1.1 times the towing vehicle’s weight (for braked trailers with shock absorbers) or 1.2 times (for braked trailers with anti-sway coupling (AKS) and shock absorbers).
- Tires: The trailer's tires must be approved for a speed of at least 120 km/h and must be no older than six years.
- Badge: A trailer that complies with the 100 km/h regulation will receive a special 100 km/h badge, which must be visibly attached to the trailer.
Advantages of the 100 km/h Regulation
Being allowed to drive at 100 km/h offers a number of advantages:
- Time savings: Especially noticeable on long journeys, the time saved can be significant.
- Smoother traffic flow: You can better keep up with the flow of traffic instead of slowing others down.
- Comfort: Higher speeds often mean less stress, as you’ll be overtaken less frequently by other drivers.
How to Prepare Your Trailer for 100 km/h
If your trailer is not yet approved for 100 km/h, you can have it retrofitted. Here’s how:
- Check requirements: Make sure your trailer meets the conditions listed above. A look at the registration documents will tell you the permissible weight and tire specs.
- Retrofitting: If necessary, retrofit your trailer with suitable tires or an anti-sway coupling. Manufacturers like ALGEMA FIT-ZEL offer appropriate accessories and expert advice.
- Technical inspection (TÜV): After retrofitting, have your trailer inspected by TÜV. This confirms that all requirements for 100 km/h approval are met.
- Apply for badge: After a successful inspection, you’ll receive the 100 km/h badge, which must be affixed to the trailer.
Important Tips for Driving Safely at 100 km/h
- Even if you're permitted to drive at 100 km/h, follow these tips to ensure a safe journey:
- Loading: Make sure your trailer is loaded properly. Heavy items should be placed low and as close to the axle as possible.
- Distance: Keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead so you can react to sudden situations.
- Swaying: Watch for signs of swaying or fishtailing, and reduce speed immediately if this occurs.
The 100 km/h regulation for trailers is a practical way to travel faster and more comfortably. With proper preparation and a thorough inspection of your setup, you can enjoy the benefits while staying safe. For retrofit options, consult with your manufacturer—such as ALGEMA FIT-ZEL—and always comply with legal requirements.