MN SF1087

Defines "qualified plug-in electric drive vehicle" as a four-wheeled motor vehicle with a battery capacity of at least four kilowatt hours, capable of external recharging, purchased or leased on or after October 1, 2010.

Allows owners of qualified plug-in electric vehicles to operate on designated HOV lanes with a permit, provided the vehicle is properly licensed, registered, and meets state and federal safety requirements.

Authorizes the Commissioner of Transportation to designate specific vehicle models that presumptively meet the requirements and to adopt rules for compliance and inspection of other vehicles.

Permits the Commissioner to suspend or limit permit issuance if HOV lane usage reaches maximum allowed levels, in consultation with the Commissioner of Public Safety and the Metropolitan Council.

Requires annual reporting to the legislature on the transportation impacts of electric vehicle use in HOV lanes, with permit fees deposited in a special revenue fund for transportation purposes.