It looks like Caltrans may be limiting the number of hybrids that get access to the hybrid lanes in California. I personally think that this is a good thing for several reasons:
- One of the ways that carpool lanes are supposed to reduce congestion is to encouage people of share a car. But now you see a solo driver driving a hybrid in the car pool lane.
- Carpool lanes are supposed to help reduce environmental polutants. I would claim that 1 gasolene automobile with 2 or 3 people (depending on the carpool rules for the area) emmit less pollutants than 2 or 3 hybrids with single occupants.
The current system is geared for the wealthy. Those who can afford a hybrid, regardless of how efficient it is, can drive in the carpool lane. I would rather the state be upfront about this, and enact a rule where if you spend $1000 - $2000, you get a sticker to enable you to drive in the carpool lane with a solo driver.
[via A Sad Salvation]
It's been no secret that you are not a fan of hybrids....HOWEVER.... I think you might be a teensy bit harsh on our dear tree huggin friends with this entry here.
ReplyDeleteI agree, most folks cannot afford a hybrid. I agree, hybrids are not really *all that and a bag of chips* as we would love for them to be. BUT I do feel that they are a good step in the right and hopeful direction.
I think Hybrids should be able to ride in carpool lanes(just as women with itty bitty babies in car seats are allowed to!! hellooo!). But I don't like all the other cash back incentives they get. Shouldn't all the gas savings and smugness be enough?
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