France introduces new road signs for eco‑friendly transportation. What you need to know

You might've observed a new road sign if you've driven on French motorways lately. It's indicated as a white diamond on a blue background, although a standalone diamond can mark it on illuminated boards.

So, what is the meaning of this sign? It denotes the distribution of a specially designated lane for particular vehicle categories. Priority vehicles encompass taxis, city transportation, electric cars, and other zero-emission vehicles with a "Crit'Air zéro émission" sticker. Also, vehicles containing at least two passengers are allowed. This can be seen as a bus lane offering extra privileges to specific categories of travellers.

A lane could be permanently reserved, as indicated by vertical and horizontal signs. Temporary reservation is also possible — where a footnote indicates a specific timeframe. Occasionally, the restriction might only be enforced for a particular duration, signalled by the illuminated boards.

In promoting these new regulations, the French government aims to advocate an environmentally conscious travel approach. This includes carpooling, a practice where a vehicle owner transports additional commuters travelling in the same direction to their workplace or educational institution.

France's goal is to amplify the usage of carpooling by offering incentives. Data from "France Bleu" radio suggests that 8 out of 10 home-to-work journeys are solo trips, with carpooling constituting a mere 3% of such commutes. The objective is to raise this figure to at least 9% by 2027.

The debut tests of this new signage occurred in 2020. Current reports from France depict that these signs are now emerging more frequently. Initially, they were spotted in Lyon, Grenoble, Strasbourg and adjoining areas but are presently appearing in Paris, Rennes and Nantes.

Unauthorised drivers utilising these lanes might attract a fine of up to 135 euros (approximately £115). Moreover, the infringement can be detected without police personnel — specialised radars installed near these lanes can quickly identify rule violators.