Green Vehicle Laws and Regulations in South Dakota
Currently, there are no state laws regulating electric vehicles (EV), hybrids, and other alternative fuel vehicles (AFV) in South Dakota.
However, that doesn't mean you shouldn't consider going green, especially if it can save you a little green. For example, did you know driving a hybrid and/or practicing green driving habits can get you a considerable discount on your auto insurance rates?
Also,state laws and regulations related to eco-friendly vehicles and driving practices are subject to change. To keep up with the most up-to-date information, it's best to keep up with your local Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) as well as periodically check with the Alternative Fuel Data Center.
Remember, no matter what kind of vehicle you own, you still must follow the state vehicle laws. You can find a thorough outline of these laws, as well as information on where to find even more details, in our section on the South Dakota Vehicle Code.
South Dakota Vehicle Emissions Testing
To date, South Dakota doesn't require smog checks for vehicle registration or registration renewal.
However, that doesn't mean there aren't things you can do to help cut back on air pollution from vehicle emissions.
For example, consider:
- Keeping up with vehicle maintenance such as oil changes and tire pressure.
- Carpooling with friends and coworkers.
- Combining all your errands into one trip.
These are just a few of the ways you can help keep it green in South Dakota. Be sure to visit our section on Car Inspections in South Dakota for more information.
Auto Insurance Discounts for Eco-Friendly Driving and Green Vehicles
Some auto insurance companies offer insurance discounts for driving fuel-efficient vehicles and even for having green driving habits. Find out if your car insurance provider offers some of the most common green vehicle discounts listed below:
- Hybrid auto discounts. Generally, hybrid vehicles run on both electricity and another type of fuel.
- Electric vehicle discounts. Most electric vehicles run solely on electricity from plugging in or batteries.
- Alternative fuel vehicle (AFV) discounts. Hybrids aren't the only kind of alternative fuel vehicles. You might also get a discount for driving vehicles such as diesel-powered cars and trucks.
- Economy car discounts. Generally, economy cars are lightweight, easy on the wallet, and don't use much gas.
- Low-mileage discounts. These are discounts for having, and keeping, low mileage on your vehicle. For example, such a discount might apply to someone who works from home or only uses his vehicle to run occasional errands.
Of course, these potential auto insurance discounts vary by provider and circumstances. For example, you might receive a 30% car insurance discount just for maintaining low mileage on your vehicle, while some car insurance agencies offer a 10% or higher discount on car insurance for owning or leasing a hybrid, electric, or other type of alternative fuel vehicle.
Convinced going green is the way to save some green?
Contact your current auto insurance agent and ask about these and other types of green vehicle and driving discounts. If there are none, consider comparing auto insurance rates online until you find the best rate for you and your green vehicle and/or driving habits.