Solo EV drivers set to lose access to Arizona’s HOV lanes later this year

PHOENIX – Solo electric vehicle drivers will lose access to Arizona’s HOV lanes during restricted hours later this year if Congress doesn’t act, state transportation officials announced Thursday.

The federal regulation that lets single-occupant EVs and other alternative fuel vehicles travel in lanes designated for vehicles with two or more occupants is set to expire on Sept. 30.

While Congress still has six months to extend the rule, the Arizona Department of Transportation isn’t waiting to start an information campaign about the pending change.

ADOT launched a webpage explaining the situation and how it could impact drivers currently allowed to travel solo in the diamond-marked lanes of the Phoenix freeway system.

How do Arizona HOV lanes work?

Valley HOV restrictions are enforceable during rush hour Mondays through Fridays from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

EVs and certain alternative fuel vehicles are eligible for specialty plates that provide access HOV lanes during restricted hours with just one occupant.

Hybrid vehicles used to be eligible, but the federal rule permitting that exemption expired in 2020. The owners of hybrid vehicles with energy efficient plates were grandfathered in as long as they maintained ownership, but their plates became invalid if the vehicles were sold.

The still-eligible hybrids will lose access along with the alternative fuel vehicles if the Sept. 30 deadline passes without congressional action.

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