On a stretch of around 47 kilometres of the D3 motorway near České Budějovice, the Ministry of Transport is launching a pilot project: drivers may now test driving at speeds of up to 150 km/h.
On a section of the D3 motorway near České Budějovice, drivers can travel at up to 150 km/h from today. The Ministry of Transport is launching the pilot project on the approximately 47-kilometre stretch between the Planá nad Lužnicí (Exit 84) and Úsilné (Exit 131) junctions, to examine whether higher speeds can be safely introduced on modern motorway sections without increasing accident rates.
“The selected section of the D3 is equipped with variable traffic signs, so that speed can be adjusted to the current conditions. The trial operation shows us how the system works in practice and what impact it has on traffic flow and safety,” explained Transport Minister Martin Kupka.
The increased speed limit applies only under favourable conditions: in poor weather, reduced visibility, or heavy traffic, the system automatically lowers the speed limit to ensure the safety of all road users. “The limits are adjusted in real time based on data from weather stations, cameras, sensors, and traffic management systems. The control is carried out by the National Traffic Information Centre of the Road and Motorway Directorate,” Kupka added.
The pilot project is expected to run for at least six months. Afterwards, the ministry will evaluate the collected data – including feedback from drivers and the police – and decide whether the model can be extended to other modern motorway sections.
The increase in the speed limit on selected motorway sections was made possible by an amendment to the law in 2023. The last time the speed limit was raised on Czech motorways was 28 years ago. In 1997, the permitted maximum speed was increased from 120 to 130 kilometres per hour.
Under normal operation, a maximum speed of 130 km/h still applies. Under general traffic regulations, the speed is adjusted by signs, and in special situations it may be reduced to 100 km/h for safety.
