Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations in Highlands

Electric Vehicle (EV) Incentives in Highlands, NC

Tax incentives and/or other incentives for drivers of electric vehicles in Highlands.

High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lane Exemption

Qualified electric vehicles, dedicated natural gas vehicles, and fuel cell electric vehicles may use North Carolina HOV lanes, regardless of the number of occupants. This exemption expires September 30, 2025. (Reference North Carolina General Statutes 20-4.01 and 20-146.2)

Electric Vehicle (EV) and Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) Emissions Inspection Exemption

Qualified light-duty EVs and FCEVs are exempt from state emissions inspection requirements. Other restrictions may apply.

(Reference North Carolina General Statutes 20-4.01 and 20-183.2)

Electric Vehicle (EV) Definition

An EV is defined as a vehicle that:

• Does not have the ability to be propelled by gasoline
• Draws electricity from a battery with a capacity of at least four kilowatt-hours and is capable of being charged from an external source
• Has not been modified from the original equipment manufacturer power train specifications
• Has a gross vehicle weight rating of 8,500 pounds or less
• Has a maximum speed of at least 65 miles per hour, and
• Meets applicable requirements in Title 49 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, Section 571.

(Reference North Carolina General Statutes 20-4.01)

Electric Vehicle (EV) Annual Fee

The owner of an EV that is exclusively powered by electricity must pay a fee of $214.50 and the owner of a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle must pay a fee of $107.25 in addition to any other required registration fees at the time of initial registration and annual registration renewal.

(Reference House Bill 259, 2023 and North Carolina General Statutes 20-87 and 20-4.02)