Darniche: “We push cars out of cities, but we don’t replace them with anything”

Bernard Darniche doesn't have his tongue in his pocket. The double European rally champion, converted into a defender of “serene and sustainable mobility” passed through our section Carpooling in issue 2234 of AUTOhebdo (on sale in digital version and at newsstands). 

The 77-year-old Frenchman draws an alarming report on the state of transport in France. “The restriction on mobility that we experience puts us under house arrest. 20 years ago, you could easily drive in built-up areas. Today is hell. »

The record holder for victories in the Tour de Corse (six, tied with Didier Auriol) also criticizes the policy of metropolises, particularly in Paris, concerning the change in mobility. “We are pushing cars out of cities, but we are not replacing them with anything. Parking is so expensive, public transport is a hassle. 

Are we talking about closing the Paris ring road? But it’s forcing suburbanites to stay at home! It’s unworthy of a country like France », he asserts.

Speed ​​limits are finally another reason for anger for the former driver Alpine and Lancia. “130 km/h on the motorway is total nonsense. With scientists, we concluded that below 160 km/h, the brain disconnects. We force people to no longer pay attention. We see it ; tEveryone stays in the middle lane. This is the line of sleepers. It's unbearable, and it is the fault of the public authorities. 

In Germany, where on certain sections the speed is unlimited, I can guarantee you that the middle lane is empty. On the right, we have slow cars and on the left, drivers who drive very fast. The hierarchy in German mobility is established. »

Find the entirety of Bernard Darniche’s Carpooling in issue 2234 of AUTOhebdo, on sale in digital version and on newsstands.