2013 Ford Fusion Energi Approved for Use in CA’s HOV Lanes

2013 Ford Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid

Need another reason to pre-order a 2013 Ford Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid?   They’re now approved to travel in California’s High Ococupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes! In fact, The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has bestowed the honor among more 2013 Fords than just about any other make of vehicle! Here are the details according to Ford.com:

“To earn access to these faster moving carpool lanes, vehicles must qualify for tax rebates through California’s Clean Vehicle Rebate Project, which is overseen by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). A vehicle that qualifies earns a special sticker that identifies it as having HOV privileges.

Ford Fusion Energi buyers are eligible to receive a $1,500 tax rebate – in addition to a $3,750 federal tax credit – making Fusion the third Ford brand vehicle to now qualify for California’s special financial and driving incentives, and putting Ford in the lead, along with Toyota, for having the most vehicles of any automaker allowed access to the state’s carpool lanes. Ford Focus Electric and C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid also qualify.”

So, no more excuses. It’s time to take that Golden State road trip!

Sources: www.ford.com, www.motortrend.com

Before You Travel: Know the Cell Phone Rules of the Road

Courtesy: http://www.autoblog.com

Because we in the Rogue Valley live so close to California news that the Golden State had banned the use of all hand-held cell phones by drivers a few years back made local headlines. Not long after, Oregon followed suit with a similar ban. But what about cell phone laws in other states? Washington and Nevada also ban the use of hand-held devices on the road. But the rules radically change the further east you go. Before traveling by car this summer, take some time to check the legalities of using your cell behind the wheel at all locations between home and your destination as some city regulations differ from those of the state. And then, even if the laws do allow you to use your phone, consider imposing a ban of your own. After all, the ultimate measure of any good road trip is that you return safely home.

Cell phone laws by state: http://www.iihs.org/laws/cellphonelaws.aspx