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Are hybrid vehicles allowed in the HOV lanes?
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Currently, vehicles that use a combination electric/gas engine are not allowed in the HOV lanes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Transportation are currently evaluating those vehicles and they may be allowed in HOV lanes in the future.
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Are motorcycles considered alternative modes?
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No, motorcycles are not considered alternative modes. While they get more miles per gallon than most cars and light duty trucks, they are higher polluting than motor vehicles with catalytic converters. On average, every 29 miles driven in a car or truck puts a pound of pollution into the air. It only takes 19 miles on a motorcycle to put a pound of pollution into the air. As a result, they don't qualify for preferred carpool parking or employer incentives--unless, of course, you carry a passenger and make it a "motorcycle-pool!"
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If motorcycles aren't considered alternative modes, why are they allowed in the HOV lanes?
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That's an Arizona Department of Motor Vehicles' decision. Generally, the HOV lane isn't as heavily populated and with traffic on only to the right of the motorcycle, it's safer.
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How do I register to become an alternative mode user?
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Registering to become an alternative mode user is easy! You've made the first step already by visiting this site. Towards the top of of the menu on the left, click on the "Register for Access" link and you'll be asked to complete some simple user information. When you click on the "Register" button, you'll be able to access "My Trip Reduction Program Calendar" and record the days that you use an alternative mode. Then you'll be eligible for the incentives we offer our employees, like quarterly drawings, free bus passes, and more!
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Are motorcycles considered alternative modes of transportation?
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No, motorcycles are not considered alternative modes. While they get more miles per gallon than most cars and light duty trucks, they produce more pollution than motor vehicles with catalytic converters. On average, every 29 miles driven in a car or truck puts a pound of pollution into the air. It only takes 19 miles on a motorcycle to put a pound of pollution into the air. As a result, they don't qualify for preferred carpool parking or employer incentives--unless, of course, you carry a passenger and make it a "motorcycle-pool!"
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I drive a hybrid vehicle. Am I eligible for alternative mode user drawings?
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At this time, hybrid vehicles aren't considered alternative modes. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Federal Highway Administration are currently studying the emissions of these vehicles and a decision will be made in the near future. We'll let you know if/when that happens but until then, you won't be able to enter the monthly AMU drawings. However we do appreciate that you are environmentally conscientious and are saving money on gas as well.
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Are hybrid vehicles allowed in the HOV lanes?
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Beginning 02/09/2007, for this pilot program, qualifying low emissions, energy efficient vehicles will be issued a special Alternative Fuel license plate affixed with a Hybrid decal that permits the operator to drive in any High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) “carpool” lane in Arizona, regardless of the number of occupants.
This pilot program allows specific vehicles to utilize the HOV lanes, reducing travel time for those individuals who drive eligible vehicles. The pilot also promotes energy independence and reduced fuel consumption while supporting improved air quality.
As criteria for eligibility, Arizona has elected that hybrid vehicles with at least 45% fuel efficiency in combined city-highway fuel economy, based on information provided by the United States Department of Energy and United States Environmental Protection Agency, will qualify for the pilot program. Additional information can be found at www.fueleconomy.gov. It has been determined that the following vehicles (all model years) meet the criteria:
Honda Insight
Toyota Prius
Honda Civic Hybrid
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Why are motorcycles allowed in the HOV lane?
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That's an Arizona Department of Motor Vehicles' decision. Generally, the HOV lane isn't as heavily populated and with traffic on only to the right of the motorcycle, it's safer.
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