Hybrid Vehicles Can Use HOV Lanes in Arizona

Arizona just announced that hybrid vehicles including Honda Insight, Honda Civic Hybrid and Toyota Prius will be permitted to use 73 miles of high-occupancy vehicle lanes if their owners get new plates and special permits from the AZ Motor Vehicle Division.

According to Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano, "We're using a variety of strategies to begin to clear the air in Arizona. Drivers who make the commitment to clean air and energy efficiency will get an easier commute. That seems like a good trade to me."

The plan will also ban some alternative-fuel vehicles such as SUV's and pick-ups that can now use the special lanes.