German toll delays
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AS CMwent to press the German government was expected to terminate its contract with motorway toll operator Toll Collect.
This follows a series of delays to the launch of the controversial LKW-Maut lorry road charging scheme after 20,000 outs on-board units had to be recalled because of a software fault. If the OBUs are not working after 1 January Toll Collect a consortium comprising DaimlerChrysler, Deutsche Telekom and the French tolling operator Cofiroute will forfeit €250,000 a day in penalties.
The International Road Transport Union says it would welcome Toll Collect's replacement: it also hopes to see a scheme compatible with others in the F.I.
Freight Transport Association chief economist Simon Chapman adds that there are many rumours surrounding the fate of the LK W Maut: -The German government is still considering its options.
"These include delaying the launch till 2005, opting for a low-tech scheme like Austria. and rejoining the Eurovignette system until a satisfactory road charging scheme is in place."