Autostrasse

The Autostrasse means motorroad in English and exists in some European countries, noticeably Germany and Switzerland. The faster equivalent is the Autobahn. The Autostrasse can also be translated as a semi-motorway.

While the two are united in a common policy of accepting only motor vehicles, differences apply between the two:

On Autobahn routes, a higher speed limit applies. This can be either 120 km/h in Switzerland or a recommended limit of 130 km/h in Germany (unless otherwise signed), or even unlimited (Germany only). Autostrasse routes are limited to a maximum speed limit of 100 km/h; Autostrasse routes with unlimited speed limits are completely nonexistent.

On Autobahn routes, longer exits and entrances apply (except for on roads with construction and older routes; they will be marked short exit or kurze Ausfahrt). On Autostrasse routes, most exits are remarkably short.

Some Autostrasse have no central barrier separating the carriageways running in different directions (e.g. A4 Autostrasse, Winterthur - Schaffhausen). On the A13 Autostrasse, portions of the road even allow you to overtake using the carriageway usually reserved for oncoming traffic! This simply does not exist on Autobahn routes; they have to have a central barrier.

Signs are different, too. Autobahn routes often show a picture of two roads (signalled by a white line) over a bridge. Autostrasse routes often show a picture of a car (front view) in white.