Insight owners have expressed outrage over the Oregon DMV's January, 2002 decision to double registration fees from $30 to $60 for hybrid vehicle owners. EV owners were subject to the same treatment, and we find it difficult to understand why a "green" state like OR would penalize HEV and EV owners. A copy of the letter received by residents of the state follows:

DMV MOTOR VEHICLES DIVISION

RE: Plate 70 MPG Year: 00 Make: Honda VIN: xxxxxxxxx

As a result of new legislation, which became effective January 1, 2002,
Oregon DMV will charge a new fee for registration of a hybrid-powered vehicle.
DMV records indicate that you own a vehicle that meets the definition of
hybrid-powered, which is electric and another source of motive power, such
as gas. The hybrid-powered vehicle registration fees will be the same as the
registration fees for electric-powered vehicles, which is currently $60 for passenger
type vehicles. While it is true that these vehicles reduce emissions by using
less fuel, they do create wear on the highways. They are charged higher
registration fee to make up for the loss of revenue generated by collecting
fuel taxes, revenue that goes toward highway repair and maintenance. The
legislation also changes fees for hybrid-powered motorcycles, motor homes,
buses, farm vehicles and trucks.

Sometime in the next two years, you will receive the renewal remainder for
your hybrid-powered vehicle. The motive power of your vehicle will show as
"HYBRID" and the renewal fee will show as $60, if a passenger vehicle.

If you have questions about this, please call:
(503) 299-9999 (Portland Metro Area)
(503) 945-5000 (All other areas of Oregon)
Or, visit the DMV website at http://www.oregondmv.com