A few Changes to EU rules...just so you know really...

[mikexgough]

Next year, motorists and travelers need to adapt to changes in the law and insurance. ....some wont apply to us but worth knowing....

An overview of the changes in Germany and Europe.

Then the validity of new licenses from 19 January 2013 limited to 15 years. Documents already issued will remain valid until 2033. After that, they must be re-applied, tells the ADAC.

Austria : The Austrian government plans according ÖAMTC from January drastically increase the penalties for minor offenses.

France : From January is reflective clothing for all motorcyclists is mandatory. From March drivers must expect without a valid breathalyzer in the car with a fine of 13 euros. The motor vehicle tax exemption for electric vehicles first registered from 18 May 2011 would be extended from five to ten years.
Promoting particulate filters shall be extended until the end of 2013, but reduced from the current 330 euros to 260 euros.

Bundeskartellamt, the market transparency has been programmed. Via an online platform, consumers will be informed as about current fuel prices .
Long distance buses will continue to run between all German cities and end as the long-distance monopoly of Deutsche Bahn. Numerous environmental zones are to be implemented during the year.
In Wiesbaden, Mainz and Monchengladbach are to be LEZ in 2013 .

Next year need insurance companies to offer uniform rates for men and women, so-called unisex rates.(Already in the UK...strangely for Britain we jumped the gun on something to rip off consumers....Oh we are good at that) Therefore, in the new contracts of automobile insurance no corresponding discount features anymore.

[briwy]

Seems there is a possibility that the breathalyser thing may be scrapped.
Hardly any for sale in France as production didn't keep pace with demand so the French government is to "re-evaluate it's effectiveness". Bit difficult that if half the vehicles aren't carrying one. C'est la vie.

[francophile1947]

Yep - breathalyser law has been suspended, by the new government, after many other European countries said it was illegal. It's still being threatened, but is unlikely to ever be unsuspended and actually enforced.

[briwy]

I seem to remember reading somewhere in the French press that it was a mate of Sarky's that was making them, or not as it turns out.