Emission testing and classification of EREV

[mrgold35]

I currently have two non plug in hybrids I need to emission test to renew my registration. Got me thinking about the Scout EREV models? What would be its overall classification since the I.C.E. motor/generator doesn't physically move the wheels for motion? We have the option to go 100% EV within city limits with zero I.C.E. with the EREV. I just figured in my state would just say: "If it has a internal combustion motor, it needs to be emission tested."

- I'm assuming the EREV motor is certified for all emission standards in every corner of North America.
- I'm assuming there will be a OBDII port available for emission certification for registration renewal
- would EREV more equal to hybrid/PHEV or will EREV be on the BEV side of the fence?

 

[speedrye]

The BMW i3 hit a BEVx categorization because the gas range was so limited, but we won't be in that boat with a much longer gas range available to us, so I suspect we'll be a PHEV since we're a series hybrid. We'll still have the emissions standards to follow, though, so some expense there, but in my state at least, the PHEV fees are MUCH lower than EV fees implemented to make up for the loss in gas tax revenue. With the feds looking to add a fee for EVs well, I expect my annual operating expenses on my EREV to be cheaper than the BEV version. Emissions testing and an oil change will cost me $60 or so annually, but I'll be saving ~$200 on "gas" taxes at the state and federal level. The vast majority of my driving will be EV daily, so I'll still reap the daily benefit of home-charging.

 

[mrgold35]

Just looked it up and NM charges an additional $70 for EVs and PHEVs to make up for lost gasoline tax revenue. No specific language for non-plug in hybrids or EREVs being charged the same fee. The fee will go up to $80 in 2028 and $90 in 2029. I don't "think" I was charged this fee with my two non plug-in hybrids I've owned since 2019 (similar registration cost compared to my two previous non-hybrid SUVs).

Not a show stopper if I'm hit with the extra $70 fee with the EREV; but, it would be nice to know. I need to start the research on tax credits on in home charging because it looks like I could be eligible for up to $400 for Level 1 or 2. That would help off-set the potential EV/PHEV registration fee.