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Customs Seize BMW X5: Driver Unaware of EU Vehicle Rules

A BMW X5 was impounded at the EU border. The driver's lack of knowledge about EU vehicle rules cost them €20,700.

In this picture I can observe a car. There is a symbol of Benz on the car. I can observe...
In this picture I can observe a car. There is a symbol of Benz on the car. I can observe registration plate. There is some text on the plate. The car is in grey color.

Customs Seize BMW X5: Driver Unaware of EU Vehicle Rules

Customs officers in Lindau have seized a BMW X5 registered in Switzerland, sparking an ongoing investigation led by the Main Customs Office Ulm. The Austrian driver, aged 27, was unaware of EU vehicle rules and failed to pay €20,700 in import duties.

The incident occurred on the A96 near Sigmarszell, where the driver crossed into the EU without proper customs clearance. The BMW X5, a luxury SUV, was impounded after the driver admitted ignorance of EU regulations governing vehicles registered outside the union.

EU rules permit the use of such vehicles by a limited group of people without duties and VAT, but the driver in this case did not fall into any of these categories. The investigation continues under the leadership of the Main Customs Office Ulm, though the name of the leading official has not been disclosed.

The seized BMW X5 remains in customs custody while the investigation proceeds. The driver's inability to pay the €20,700 import duties has led to the vehicle's impoundment. The case serves as a reminder for drivers to familiarize themselves with EU vehicle regulations when crossing borders.

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