EV Registration and Emissions exemption - How?

[bennelson]

Hey Guys,

I got the Geo Metro that I am going to convert to an electric vehicle, but how should I register it?

My electric motorcycle was registered as the original bike, but with Hobbyist plates. It was more than 20 years old and exempt from emissions testing.

I know in my state, (and county) the first thing that happens when you register a vehicle is that you get a letter telling you to take it in for testing.

I checked the various types of plates I could get for the Geo, and the only one that applies to it is just the standard one!!!!

What do I do when I get the letter telling me to have it emissions tested?

I would love to see the expression on the face of the person at the testing center when they can't find the tailpipe!

But seriously, what did you do for your electric vehicle, and what do you suggest I do with mine?

[TomEV]

Here is a link to the Wisconsin temporary smog exemption form:

http://www.dot.wisconsin.gov/drivers/forms/mv2472.pdf

On the form is a space for 'other'.

There is a telephone number to call for questions (608) 266-1466 for emission exemption information.

You could also email one of the three people with electric cars in Wisconsin on the EV album - they are probably the best source as they have 'been there, done that'.

http://www.evalbum.com/geo/Wisconsin

[bennelson]

I got a reply last night from one of the three other people in the state with an electric vehicle.

"Hi Ben.

All you do for emissions testing is pull into the testing station, and when they come out to do the test you tell them you are electric powered, and open the hood to show them there's no engine. I also open my gas filler lid and show them the electrical plug connection. Once they verify that you are not an ICE, they have a computer program with a FUEL TYPE selection, and you'll see them change that to ELECTRIC. You'd think they'd keep that in a database, but I swear I've had to go through this several times because somehow they lose the fuel type info. Anyway, it's no big deal.

Our car is registered just like any other car -- regular car plates. Again, there's nothing to worry about. We get our insurance through State Farm and have not had any trouble with that, either.

Good luck with your conversion!

-Tom"

So, according to Tom, it shouldn't be any big deal! Yea!