California’s EV Drivers Face Carpool Lane Access Crisis

California electric vehicle (EV) drivers may soon face a significant setback as access to carpool lanes for solo occupants could be revoked, pending the expiration of a federal law on September 30.

This law, stemming from the 1998 Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century, has allowed states to grant single-occupancy vehicles with low emissions the privilege to use carpool lanes, a perk that has long incentivized EV ownership in the state.

While California lawmakers are reportedly pushing to extend the statute, no proposals have yet been made in Congress, leaving many uncertain about the future of this access.

Prolong this privilege until January 1, 2027

State Assembly member Greg Wallis has introduced a bill aiming to prolong this privilege until January 1, 2027, but the likelihood of its passage appears tenuous given the current Republican majority in Congress.

This administration has historically sought to roll back EV-friendly policies, as seen during the Trump era, which included attempts to freeze federal funding for EV chargers and target the $7,500 federal EV tax credit.

In 2024, California’s Department of Motor Vehicles issued 194,486 EV stickers, reflecting a remarkable 52% increase from 2023, highlighting the growing adoption of electric vehicles in the state.

However, some experts contend that without a limit on single-occupancy carpool lane access, the very purpose of these lanes may become compromised, undermining efforts to reduce traffic congestion and pollution. Encouraging carpooling not only fosters a collaborative environmental approach but also enhances overall traffic efficiency.

As the deadline nears, the uncertainty surrounding the future of single-occupancy carpool lane access raises crucial questions about the state’s commitment to sustainable transportation policies and the balance required to effectively manage the growing influx of electric vehicles on the roads.