The EPA has proposed a rule that would allow drivers of fuel-efficient vehicles to use the high occupancy vehicle lanes without bringing along those pesky carpoolers. Most states require at least two occupants for a vehicle to travel in the HOV lane.

Qualifying vehicles would need to be at least 25% more fuel-efficient than comparable gas-powered cars. Four manufacturers - Toyota, Honda, Ford, and Mazda - offer eleven models that would qualify, including two powered by natural gas.

The eleven qualifying vehicles, inside...

• 2004-07 Toyota Prius
• 2006-07 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
• 2006-07 Lexus RX400h
• 2006 Mazda Tribute Hybrid
• 2006-07 Mercury Mariner Hybrid
• 2005-07 Ford Escape Hybrid
• 2003-2004 Ford Crown Victoria (natural gas)
• 2003-07 Honda Civic Hybrid
• 2003-06 Honda Insight
• 2005, 2007 Honda Accord Hybrid
• 2003-05 Honda Civic (natural gas)

  States worried about anti-carpool yokels clogging their HOV lanes can propose stricter standards; California won't let a solo hybrid driver onto their HOV lanes unless their car gets 45 mpg. — CAREY GREENBERG-BERGER

  EPA Pushes Pool Lane Rules for Hybrids [Washington Post]