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HB 1874

Motor Vehicles, Titling and Registration - As introduced, redefines "hybrid electric vehicle" to clarify that it is a motor vehicle that is propelled by a combination of an electric motor and an internal combustion engine or other power source and components thereof. - Amends TCA Title 55, Chapter 4.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Greg Martin

Tennessee clarifies hybrid electric vehicle definition to explicitly include vehicles using combined electric motors and internal combustion or alternative power sources for registration purposes.

Signed by Governor.
#motorvehicles #titlingandregistration
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Bill Summary · HB 1874

Legislative bill overview

HB 1874 clarifies Tennessee's legal definition of "hybrid electric vehicle" in state titling and registration law to explicitly include vehicles powered by a combination of electric motors and internal combustion engines or other power sources. The bill amends Title 55, Chapter 4 of the Tennessee Code Annotated.

Why is this important

Clear statutory definitions ensure consistent vehicle classification for registration, taxation, and regulatory purposes across state agencies. This clarification may affect insurance rates, emissions compliance categorization, and eligibility for any state incentives or regulations specific to hybrid vehicles.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of "other power sources": The vague language allowing "other power source" components could create ambiguity about future vehicle technologies (hydrogen fuel cells, compressed natural gas hybrids, etc.) and may require future amendments
  • Retroactive application: Unclear whether the redefinition applies to previously registered vehicles or only going forward, potentially creating classification inconsistencies
  • Missing performance specifications: The definition lacks technical thresholds (e.g., minimum electric motor contribution percentage) that could distinguish hybrids from conventional vehicles with minor electrical assistance

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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