Hybrids on bus lanes? We check which cars have such a right
Electric cars on bus lanes are already quite a common sight. But can owners of hybrid cars also use special belts? We explain.
The sight of electric cars on Polish bus lanes is becoming more and more common. This is due to the fact that a growing number of electric cars take advantage of privileges granted by regulations that aim to encourage switching to zero-emission vehicles. But does this privilege also apply to hybrid cars? Let’s look at the details.
Can hybrid cars use bus lanes?
No, hybrid cars are not allowed to use bus lanes. The regulations clearly specify that only fully emission-free cars, i.e. electric and hydrogen cars, can use this option. Even plug-in hybrids that can be charged externally do not meet this requirement because they are equipped with an internal combustion engine.
This also means that electric cars with the so-called range extender, i.e. a small combustion engine that increases the vehicle’s range, are also not entitled to use bus lanes. In the event of violating these regulations, drivers of hybrid vehicles who decide to drive in the bus lane may be fined PLN 100 and one penalty point.
Rules for driving electric cars on bus lanes
Pursuant to Article 148a of the Road Traffic Law, electric cars can drive on bus lanes, but this privilege is time-limited. Electric vehicles can only use bus lanes until the end of 2025, and this only applies to bus lanes designated by road managers.
Additionally, in order for a vehicle to legally drive in a bus lane, it must meet certain criteria:
- Maximum total weight – the car cannot weigh more than 3.5 tons.
- Emission-free – the vehicle must be fully electric, which means no combustion engine.
Additional privileges for electric cars
Using bus lanes is just one of the privileges available to electric car owners. Other privileges include:
- Exemption from parking fees in urban paid parking zones.
- Subsidies for the purchase of electric vehicleswhich makes their purchase cost lower.
- Preferential lending and leasing conditions for electric cars.
It is expected that the number of electric cars in Poland will increase, which will increase the need to expand charging infrastructure. In large cities, the availability of charging stations is relatively good, but outside them there is still a lot to do.
