Just saw a similar story of KABC ch 7 (LA) on June 6th. http://cbs2.com/topstories/local_story_139102632.html Hybrids With Carpool Stickers Seek $4K Premium, by CBS news (CBS) LOS ANGELES Those yellow keyhole-shaped carpool stickers on hybrids and other qualifying high-mileage, low emission vehicles are worth about $4,000 when it comes to resale prices, it was reported. A Kelly Blue Book survey shows Toyota Prius vehicles with a high occupancy vehicle (HOV) sticker, which allows solo drivers to cruise the carpool lanes, were listed for an average of $4,000 more than those without, according to media reports. "Drivers in California clearly see the benefit of saving time," said Kelley Blue Book spokeswoman Robyn Eckard. The Department of Motor Vehicles issued 85,000 of the nontransferable stickers at $8 apiece. Hybrids were eligible due to their low emissions. Of 60 Prius vehicles listed on cars.com, just three with carpool stickers were advertised, ranging in price from $11,900 to $23,856. Toyota's base price is $22,175. The state has stopped issuing the stickers for hybrids. The only way to obtain one is to replace an existing sticker. Otherwise drivers of electric or compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles can obtain the stickers from the Air Resources Board. May 19, 2007
I noticed that on craigslist, when I was shopping around. Someone was asking $32K for an '06 (or maybe it wasn an '07), in any case it was used but had HOV stickers on it.
Which actually makes our cars with stickers worth even more- until 2011!!!! I wish they would allow us to take them with us to our next new Prius!
Yeah, cars with stickers are priced higher. Who knows how much more $$$ people are actually getting for them though. If someone REALLY wants HOV stickers, they can buy a new Honda CNG vehicle and get a tax credit as well as the stickers for much less than a Prius with stickers.