HONOLULU (KHON2) — There is a new HOV lane change coming for all electric vehicle’s in Hawaiʻi.
Starting on Sept. 30, electric vehicle drivers with EV plates, in Hawaiʻi, will no longer be allowed to drive alone in the HOV (High-Occupancy Vehicle) lanes during restricted hours, stated by the Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT).
This means, if you’re driving an EV and you’re by yourself, you are not allowed to use the carpool lane anymore.
This stems from a federal rule that allows for EVs in HOV lanes; now coming to its expiration date on Sept. 30.
According to the HDOT, they are following the law and the change that is needed to keep traffic flowing.
HDOT also says Hawai‘i’s own EV rule will remain on standby, should the federal rule be extended or renewed in the future.
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Once again, starting Sept. 30, no more solo EVs in the carpool lane. You’ll need passengers to use it, just like everyone else.