By Leftlane Staff
Monday, Apr 10th, 2006 @ 12:40 pm

Last year, California allowed solo occupants of hybrid cars to use carpool lanes in an effort to encourage the environmentally friendly vehicles. But other users of the carpool lanes are beginning to complain that many hybrid owners are moving too slowly in order to maximize their fuel efficiency, and of clogging diamond lanes that were once clear. Hybrid motorists even have a term for the ill will: “Prius backlash.” The law grants carpool-lane access to hybrids that get at least 45 mpg. So far, only the Toyota Prius , Honda Civic and Honda Insight qualify. A similar debate is also occurring in Virginia, where similar laws are in effect. Last month, the Virginia Legislature had to place limits on hybrid drivers using the lanes in peak hours, requiring three or more people per vehicle.

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