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…

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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]

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