Zipper Merge
A zipper merge is when vehicles from two lanes take turns to merge at the point where a lane ends, like the teeth of a zip.
What is Zipper Merge?
It uses both lanes until the merge point and reduces queue length. In Germany it is required by law in heavy traffic. Each driver lets one vehicle in from the ending lane. Drivers who merge early and leave the free lane empty can actually make the queue longer.
How it works
Merging late and alternately keeps traffic flowing and uses all the road space.
Why it matters for your car
Signal clearly and keep a steady speed. Do not block the ending lane to stop others from merging.
Other terms
- A/C Recharge (Air Conditioning Service)
- Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS)
- Approach Angle
- Boot Lid (Trunk Lid)
- Child Seat Support Leg
- Chip Tuning (Engine Remapping)
- Coolant Temperature Sensor
- Electronic Parking Brake
- Expansion Valve (Orifice Tube)
- High-voltage Battery
- Kerb Weight (Curb Weight)
- Number Plate Light (Licence Plate Lamp)
- Orifice Tube
- Oxygen Sensor Heater
- Piston Ring
- Smart Repair (Small Area Repair)
- Space-Saver Spare Wheel
- Trailer Sway (Snaking)
- USB-C Port In The Car
- Winterising A Car