The initiative aims to cut down on the number of cars on the road

The trial scheme was announced by the government to promote car sharing.

Solo drivers will be banned from the High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane - during rush hour.

The lane will stretch between junctions 7 and 10 of the M1 with a view towards extending the scheme to junction 13, which is Milton Keynes South.

Transport Secretary, Alistair Darling said: "The government is determined to tackle congestion - adding capacity where necessary and making better use of existing road space.

"Carpool lanes encourage drivers to share their vehicle by providing dedicated lanes for vehicles with passengers.

International precedent

"Making better use of our road network, these lanes have been used to great effect both in America and Australia and could play a key role in reducing congestion on Britain's motorways.

"I hope motorists will be encouraged to consider carpooling and take advantage of the new lanes. It works elsewhere and there is no reason why it can't work here as well."

Work is already planned to widen the motorway from dual three lanes to dual four lanes.

The government estimates that there would be 5% fewer cars on the road if car sharing was adopted. Work is due to start in Autumn 2005.