Are Green License Plates Only for Pure Electric Vehicles?
2 Answers
Vehicles with green license plates are not necessarily pure electric vehicles; they can also be plug-in hybrid vehicles. In China, both plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and pure electric vehicles (BEVs) are classified as new energy vehicles, and all new energy vehicles are eligible for green license plates. Eligibility criteria for applying for a new energy vehicle license plate: 1. The applicant must be registered in China and possess the financial capacity and funding capability commensurate with the project investment. 2. The applying enterprise can only produce "pure electric passenger vehicles," which include pure electric and range-extended (series hybrid with external charging capability) passenger vehicles, and must comply with relevant national standards. Advantages of plug-in hybrid vehicles: Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are equipped with both an engine and an electric motor, distinguishing them from conventional hybrid vehicles. Unlike regular hybrids, PHEVs can recharge their power batteries using an external power source. PHEVs offer a longer electric-only driving range, better fuel economy, and lower emissions. Consumers purchasing PHEVs are exempt from purchase tax. The greatest advantage of PHEVs is their superior fuel efficiency compared to pure gasoline vehicles, along with a longer driving range than conventional pure electric vehicles. The biggest advantage of pure electric vehicles is cost savings. Apart from the initial purchase cost, the ongoing expenses are primarily insurance and charging. Since pure electric vehicles lack an engine and transmission, they require minimal maintenance, needing only periodic checks to ensure there are no major issues before continuing operation.
Last time my friend wanted to buy a new energy vehicle, we went to the 4S store together and found out that not all green-plate cars are purely electric—some are plug-in hybrids, the kind that can run on both electricity and gasoline. The salesperson explained that green plates are special license plates promoted by China for energy conservation and environmental protection. Any new energy vehicle that meets national policy requirements can have one, including pure electric, plug-in hybrid, and fuel cell vehicles. I was quite surprised because I thought green plates equaled pure electric, but in fact, there’s a big difference. Pure electric cars can only be charged, while hybrids can also refuel and are much more convenient for long trips. The government offers subsidies for green plates to reduce pollution and promote industrial upgrading. When buying a car, make sure to ask about the specific model details—don’t just impulsively place an order based on the plate. Personally, I think green plates are a good sign, indicating that the car is more eco-friendly. But for pure electric cars, you need to find a good place to install a charging station; otherwise, it’ll be a headache if you can’t charge it every day. In short, green plates represent the overall direction of new energy, not a specific technology type.
