Hybrid vehicle buying Incentives in California
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Vehicles -> subcategory Other.
Hybrid Vehicle Incentives in California
Overview
California stands out with substantial incentives for purchasing hybrid vehicles, extending beyond just tax credits. These benefits include highway lane privileges, parking advantages, and specific city offerings.
Key Benefits
State Hybrid HOV Access
Starting January 1, 2005, California permitted hybrid electric vehicles achieving at least 45 mpg and with SULEV emissions ratings to use high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes regardless of passenger count. As of August 2010, this is active for vehicles like the Toyota Prius, Honda Insight, and Honda Civic Hybrid. Special decals, available on a first-come, first-served basis, are required. More info can be found [here](http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/carpool/carpool.htm).
Free Parking in San Jose
San Jose offers free parking for Clean-Fuel Vehicles at public parking facilities and on-street meters. For more details, contact Jason Burton at (408) 794-1427 or jason.burton@ci.sj.ca.us.
Los Angeles Parking Benefits
Gas-electric hybrids can park free at meters in Los Angeles, though time limits still apply. Following a trial from October 2004 to March 2005, this incentive has been extended. Eligible vehicles include the Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid, Honda Insight, and Ford Escape Hybrid. For more information, contact ladot@dot.lacity.org.
Clean Air Vehicle Decal
If you own a Zero Emission Vehicle or Super Low Emission Vehicle, you can purchase a California Clean Air Vehicle Decal from the DMV, allowing parking without coin deposits at metered spaces, though time limits must be observed. Learn more [here](http://www.dmv.ca.gov/vr/decal.htm).
Insurance Discounts
Farmers Insurance offers a 5% auto insurance discount to California customers driving hybrid or alternative-fuel vehicles, effective October 1, 2005. New customers receive the discount immediately, while existing customers benefit upon renewal.
Legislative and Regional Efforts
Hybrid Tax Credit Bill
AB 838 proposed a tax credit based on emissions ratings. ZEVs would receive 100%, with diminishing credits for other categories. The bill did not pass in the 2005 legislative session.
Hybrid Internet Sales Bill
AB 1223 aimed to allow direct hybrid vehicle sales from manufacturers to consumers, bypassing dealers. This bill did not pass the Transportation Committee in 2005.
Santa Barbara Incentives
Santa Barbara offered $1,000 incentives for up to ten hybrid vehicles, under the administration of the California Energy Commission. This program concluded on March 30, 2004. For inquiries, contact Irene Salazar at ISalazar@energy.state.ca.us.
These incentives demonstrate California's commitment to promoting environmentally friendly transportation options.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Hybrid vehicle buying Incentives in California.
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