German court ban diesel cars in city centers

Germany's top administrative court has ruled that it is legal for cities to ban diesel cars. The government opposes the bans, but is under pressure from the EU to do more to combat air pollution.

The German government and the country's influential car industry oppose the diesel driving bans.
Millions of German drivers and businesses have also been anxiously awaiting the court's decision, with many concerned about their disrupted driving routes and a possible devaluation of their vehicles.

The ruling does not determine whether the bans will be implemented, but rather whether German states, cities and communities have the right to impose them without needing federal legislation to maintain air pollution limits.