In Virginia, Governor Tim Kaine signed into law an extension allowing hi-tech hybrid vehicles to use high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes through the middle of next summer. HOV lanes were established on some highways to encourage carpooling, reduce pollution, and reduce traffic congestion. Since only multiple passenger vehicles are permitted in the HOV lanes, carpoolers are supposed to avoid traffic.
Hybrid vehicles are powered by a system that uses both a traditional gasoline engine and a rechargeable battery with motor. Originally, hybrids were allowed into the HOV lanes to encourage people to buy and drive fuel efficient vehicles. However, many SUV hybrids are actually less fuel efficient than conventional automobiles.
A few years ago, hybrid vehicles were uncommon. Now, they are clogging some HOV lanes. In particular, the HOV lane on inbound I-66 provides no advantage over the regular lanes between Rte 123 and The Beltway. The result is that there is no incentive to form a carpool.
Drivers in hybrids without any passengers should not be permitted in HOV lanes. Allowing large SUV hybrid vehicles to use HOV lanes is especially absurd.
I wrote to Governor Kaine on this topic and thus far have only received this non-response:
This email is to confirm that I have received your electronic correspondence, and I appreciate your taking the time to share your thoughts with me.
If your email requires a response please allow sufficient time for in depth analysis and processing.
If you need to correspond further with me, please return to our e-mail form:
http://www.governor.virginia.gov/abouttheGovernor/contactGovernor.cfmSincerely,
Tim Kaine
Governor of Virginia
I will post again if/when I receive a real explanation.