Navigating vehicle traffic schemes can be a challenge, especially with the evolving landscape of car technology. In metropolitan areas, number coding schemes are implemented to manage traffic volume, but exemptions exist, particularly for environmentally friendlier vehicles. Recently, there has been confusion, especially with the rise of ‘mild hybrid’ vehicles, about which cars truly qualify for these exemptions. Many car buyers were led to believe that mild hybrids, due to their partial electrification, were automatically exempted from number coding. However, this is not the case. Mild hybrids, while incorporating some electric components, typically lack the electric motor power to propel the vehicle solely on electric power. This crucial distinction means they often don’t meet the criteria for exemption under regulations like the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA).
To clear up the confusion and provide definitive guidance, the Department of Energy (DOE) has released an updated list of recognized electric vehicles as of October 1, 2023. This list is essential for anyone looking to purchase a vehicle, particularly a hybrid, with the expectation of number coding exemption. According to the DOE, electric vehicles (EVs) are defined as “vehicles with at least one electric drive for vehicle propulsion.” This broad definition encompasses various types of EVs, each with different levels of electrification and capabilities.
This updated DOE list categorizes vehicles into Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs), Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), and Light Electric Vehicles (LEVs). If you are considering a hybrid car specifically to gain exemption from number coding, it is imperative to verify that the model you are interested in is included in this official list. Using this list will ensure you make an informed decision and benefit from the incentives and exemptions intended for qualifying electric vehicles.
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV) on the DOE Exemption List
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) combine a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor and battery. These systems work together to improve fuel efficiency, but unlike plug-in hybrids, HEVs cannot be charged externally. Their electric motors are primarily powered by regenerative braking and the engine itself. Crucially, certain HEV models do qualify for coding exemption based on the DOE’s criteria. Here are the Hybrid Electric Vehicles recognized by the DOE as of October 1, 2023:
Alt text: 2024 Toyota Yaris Cross HEV, a hybrid electric vehicle listed for number coding exemption.
- Great Wall Motor (GWM) Jolion
- Great Wall Motor (GWM) Haval H6 Supreme/Max
- Honda CR-V e:HEV
- Lexus ES300h
- Lexus IS300h
- Lexus LS500h
- Lexus NX350h
- Lexus RX350h
- Lexus RX500h
- Lexus UX250h
- Mazda CX-60
- Mazda CX-90
- Nissan Kicks e-POWER
- Toyota Alphard HEV
- Toyota Camry
- Toyota Corolla Altis
- Toyota Corolla Cross HEV
- Toyota Innova Zenix HEV
- Toyota RAV4
- Toyota Yaris Cross HEV
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) Approved for Coding Exemption
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) represent another category of vehicles eligible for coding exemptions. PHEVs are more advanced hybrids that feature larger batteries and can be charged from an external power source. This capability allows them to travel longer distances on electric power alone compared to traditional HEVs, further reducing emissions and fuel consumption. The DOE list includes the following PHEV models:
Alt text: Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle included in the DOE’s list for coding exemption.
- BMW XM
- BYD Tang Dual Hybrid Mode
- Chery Tiggo 8 Pro e+
- Jaguar F-PACE P400e
- Mitsubishi Outlander
- Range Rover P400e
Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) on the Updated DOE List
Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) are fully electric vehicles that run solely on electricity stored in batteries. They produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them the most environmentally friendly option. BEVs are also included in the DOE’s list of exempted vehicles, offering a wide range of models from various manufacturers. Below is a selection of BEVs from the DOE list, demonstrating the breadth of electric vehicle options available:
Alt text: BMW iX3 BEV, a battery electric vehicle recognized on the DOE list for number coding exemption.
- Ankai HFF6120G9EV21
- Ankai Hff6855G03EV12
- Audi Q8 e-tron 50 Advance quattro
- Audi Q8 e-tron 55 quattro
- Basic Geep Iconic
… (List truncated for brevity, full list in original article) … - Volkswagen ID.6
- Xinri Anger-S
… (List truncated for brevity, full list in original article) … - Xinge Motorcycle XG3000D QZK-7K (S9-B)
(Note: For the complete list of BEVs and LEVs, please refer to the original DOE document or the full article above.)
Light Electric Vehicles (LEV) Also Eligible for Exemption
Light Electric Vehicles (LEVs) represent a final category in the DOE’s list. This category typically includes smaller, lighter vehicles such as electric scooters, e-bikes, and other personal mobility devices. Like BEVs and qualifying HEVs/PHEVs, LEVs that meet the DOE’s criteria are also exempted from number coding.
Alt text: Sundiro Honda S07 LEV, a light electric vehicle included in the DOE’s list for number coding exemption.
- Coswheel FTN T20
- Dualtron Eagle
- Dualtron Mini
- Dualtron Spider
- Dualtron Storm
… (List truncated for brevity, full list in original article) … - Sundiro Honda x Muji MS01
- Sundiro Honda S07
(Note: For the complete list of BEVs and LEVs, please refer to the original DOE document or the full article above.)
Making Informed Choices About Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Exemptions
The DOE’s updated list is a critical resource for consumers in navigating the number coding scheme and understanding which vehicles qualify for exemptions. When considering purchasing a hybrid or electric vehicle to avoid coding restrictions, always consult the official DOE list to confirm the specific model’s eligibility. This ensures that your investment aligns with your expectations regarding vehicle use and traffic regulations. As the electric vehicle market continues to grow and evolve, staying informed through official sources like the DOE is the best approach to making smart and compliant vehicle choices.
