From discussion on WRS with a little help from Perplexity. https://www.perplexity.ai/search/french-high-capacity-lanes-k2V2zlzET9W5WADY9CARUg
France has recently introduced high-capacity lanes, also known as carpool lanes or high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes, in several areas to combat traffic congestion and reduce pollution. These lanes are designed to encourage more environmentally friendly driving behaviors and improve traffic flow.Key features of French high-capacity lanes include:
- Eligibility: These lanes are reserved for:
- Carpools (vehicles with at least two occupants)
- Electric vehicles
- Low-emission vehicles with a Crit’Air 0 logo
- Taxis
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Signage: The lanes are identified by a white diamond-shaped logo on a black or blue background.
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Implementation: Currently, these lanes can be found on:
- The A48 near Grenoble (France’s first carpool lane)
- The A6/A7 (M6/M7) near Lyon
- Planned for Paris’ périphérique (ring road) after the 2024 Summer Olympic Games
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Enforcement: Artificial intelligence-based flash units are used to count the number of occupants in vehicles. Violators can face a fine of €135 (reduced to €90 if paid immediately).
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Flexibility: Some lanes may have intermittent usage, with signage lighting up to indicate when the lane is reserved for high-occupancy vehicles or specifying certain times of operation.
These high-capacity lanes are part of France’s broader efforts to promote sustainable transportation and reduce urban congestion. The initiative aligns with the goals of the Citizens’ Climate Convention, which aims to limit car-related pollution. To further encourage carpooling, the French government has also introduced a €100 carpooling subsidy.As this system continues to expand, drivers in France should be aware of these new lane designations and regulations to avoid fines and contribute to more efficient and environmentally friendly urban transportation.
I also believe there is one on one of the smaller border crossings into Geneva, but that one has a barrier that only opens if 2 or more in the car. Not certain about e-vehicles.
