Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV) Access to Roadways

A NEV is defined as a four-wheeled electric motor vehicle that has a maximum speed of at least 20 miles per hour (mph) but not more than 25 mph and complies with the federal requirements specified in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations, section 571.500. NEVs may only be used on roads with speed limits of up to 35 mph, though NEVs may cross roads or highways with greater speed limits at intersections or permitted crossing points. A local authority or the New Mexico Department of Transportation may prohibit the operation of NEVs on any road under its jurisdiction if the governing body determines that the prohibition is necessary in the interest of safety.

(Reference New Mexico Statutes 66-1-4.12 and 66-3-1103)