The High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane is a special lane that can allow Maple Ridge drivers and beyond to avoid traffic and save time. In theory, the HOV lanes in British Columbia encourage drivers to carpool and help reduce the number of vehicles on the road. This is because most HOV lanes are only accessible to vehicles that have two or more passengers.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule and that can often include electric vehicles. When you opt for an electric vehicle such as the new Chevrolet Bolt EV, you can apply to get special access to the HOV lane to potentially make your Burnaby commute quicker. Explore electric vehicle HOV lane access in B.C. today with the experts from Go North Surrey GM! We can also help you learn more about EVs and help you decide if they’re right for your needs.

EV Criteria for Special HOV Lane Access

After finding the perfect new electric vehicle from our inventory, you’ll want to apply for HOV lane access on B.C. highways. By applying, you’ll be granted special access that’ll allow your Coquitlam adventures to be quick and efficient.

That means regardless of the number of passengers in your EV, you’ll be able to access the HOV lane in B.C. as long as you have the HOV lane access sticker. But, what’s the electric vehicle criteria to get access to the HOV lane in British Columbia? Let’s take a look below for more information:

• Battery electric vehicles (BEVs)
• Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (HFCVs)
• Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV)
• Extended-range electric vehicles (E-REVs)

In addition to one of those fuel types, your vehicle must also be:

• Highway capable
• Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS) certified
• Covered or deemed covered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certified in accordance with the On-Road Vehicle and Engine Emission Regulations (ORVEER)
• B.C. registered, OEM vehicle with Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) less than 6,000kg
• Post-production conversions are ineligible

After you apply for HOV lane access, your application will be reviewed and you’ll be granted an official HOV lane decal for your EV if the criteria are met.

Find a Vehicle Suitable for the HOV Lane Today at Go North Surrey GM!

Wondering how you can start taking advantage of an EV to get access to the HOV lanes on B.C. roads? Stop by today at Go North Surrey GM for more information. We’ll help you find the perfect EV and answer any questions you may have about HOV lane access. For additional assistance, you can always reach out to us online or stop in at our Surrey dealership!