The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has initiated the trials of electric vehicles on the five priority bypass lanes in Auckland.

Until 20 March, the electric vehicle drivers will have the permission from the transport agency to use specific on-ramps which will provide faster access to the motorway, reducing travel times.

NZTA has provided permission to support the government’s objective to significantly increasing the uptake of electric vehicles in New Zealand to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

"It’s important that we test the concept of allowing electric vehicles into specific special vehicle lanes and gauge the impact on road users."

New Zealand Transport Agency planning and investment group manager Robert Brodnax said: “The programme is designed to encourage more people to choose an electric vehicle over a conventional diesel or petrol vehicle for their daily transport needs, thereby reducing greenhouse emissions.”

Robert Brodnax further explained that by opening up special vehicle lanes is one of a number of incentives under the Government’s Electric Vehicle programme.

Currently, the Ministry of Transport is carrying consultations with various controlling authorities on proposed legislative and road rule changes to allow electric vehicles into special vehicle lanes. These changes are expected to take effect on 1 July this year.

Brodnax added: “Before new legislation and road rules come into force, it’s important that we test the concept of allowing electric vehicles into specific special vehicle lanes and gauge the impact on road users.

“The NZ Transport Agency is also currently assessing which special vehicle lanes on the state highway network may be suitable for electric vehicles following legislative changes; this includes looking at safety, lane entry and exit, current and future traffic flow, and the impact on public transport.”

All vehicles participating in the trial will be identified by an ‘EV’ sticker and the five onramps will be marked with a sign at the start of the lane.