Section 25-108 - Use of HOV lane by plug-in vehicles [Section subject to abrogation]. - Maryland Statutes

§ 25-108. Use of HOV lane by plug-in vehicles [Section subject to abrogation].
 

(a)  Definitions.-  

(1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated. 

(2) "HOV lane" means a high occupancy vehicle lane, the use of which is restricted by a traffic control device during specified times to vehicles carrying at least a specified number of occupants. 

(3) "Plug-in vehicle" means a motor vehicle that: 

(i) Is made by a manufacturer; 

(ii) Is manufactured primarily for use on public streets, roads, and highways; 

(iii) Has not been modified from original manufacturer specifications; 

(iv) Is rated at not more than 8,500 pounds unloaded gross vehicle weight; 

(v) Has a maximum speed capability of at least 65 miles per hour; and 

(vi) Is propelled to a significant extent by an electric motor that draws electricity from a battery that: 

1. Has a capacity of not less than 4 kilowatt-hours for 4-wheeled motor vehicles and not less than 2.5 kilowatt-hours for 2-wheeled or 3-wheeled motor vehicles; and 

2. Is capable of being recharged from an external source of electricity. 

(b)  In general.- Whenever the State Highway Administration designates a portion of a highway as an HOV lane, the HOV lane may be used at all times by plug-in vehicles that have obtained a permit from the Administration under this section, regardless of the number of passengers in the vehicle. 

(c)  Design of permit.-  

(1) The Administration, the State Highway Administration, and the Department of State Police shall consult to design a permit to designate a vehicle as a plug-in vehicle authorized to use an HOV lane. 

(2) The Administration may charge a fee, not to exceed $20, for issuing a permit under this section. 

(3) The Administration, on the recommendation of the State Highway Administration, may limit the number of permits issued to ensure HOV lane operations are not degraded to an unacceptable level. 

(d)  Report.- On or before January 1 of each year, the Administration and the State Highway Administration jointly shall report to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2-1246 of the State Government Article, the General Assembly on the effect of the use of the plug-in vehicle permits issued under this section on the operation of HOV lanes in the State. 
 

[2010, chs. 491, 492.]