Which hybrids are – and are not – welcomed in the the HOV lane

Filed under: Hybrid, Legislation and Policy

As we mentioned yesterday, the EPA’s list of HOV-lane-friendly hybrids has seen the light of day. The official draft list is now out, and it’s pretty much as expected (you can download the PDF here). There’s no blanket exemption for hybrids in the HOV lanes, as vehicles like the Lexus GS450h, Dodge Ram Hybrid and Saturn Vue Greenline still get to sit in traffic. CNN has the list of acceptable vehicles:

2004-07 Toyota Prius
2006-07 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
2006-07 Lexus RX400h
2006 Mazda Tribute Hybrid
2005-07 Ford Escape Hybrid
2006-07 Mercury Mariner Hybrid
2003-07 Honda Civic Hybrid
2003-06 Honda Insight
2005 and 2007 models of the Honda Accord Hybrid
Natural gas versions of the 2003-05 Honda Civic
Natural gas versions of the 2003-2004 Ford Crown Victoria

The hybrids that end up being exempted will continue to be classified as such until at least September 30, 2009, as that’s how far out Congress has authorized such exemptions. While the EPA’s guideline allow hybrid vehicles with 25 percent higher combined mpg ratings in city and highway driving (compared to similar gasoline-fueled vehicles) to zip down the HOV lanes, nothing in the proposal will stop states from applying stricter standards. The EPA is accepting comments on this draft list for 30 days.