Are New Energy Vehicles Exempt from Traffic Restrictions?
3 Answers
New energy vehicles are not exempt from traffic restrictions nationwide; this primarily depends on the local license plate and number restriction policies. Many traffic restriction policies are implemented by local governments themselves, as traffic conditions vary across regions, and the implementation periods differ. Therefore, when traveling to other areas, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the local traffic control policies. Some cities only exempt pure electric vehicles from traffic restrictions, while other types of new energy vehicles are still subject to restrictions. However, according to national regulations, local governments are strictly prohibited from introducing new vehicle purchase restrictions, and efforts must be made to eliminate barriers to passenger vehicle consumption. Local governments that have already implemented vehicle purchase and traffic restrictions should reasonably set congestion zones based on urban traffic congestion, pollution control, and traffic demand management effectiveness, in principle exempting areas outside congestion zones from restrictions.
I've been driving a new energy vehicle in Beijing for almost two years now, so let me talk about the traffic restriction exemptions. Most cities do give preferential treatment to green-plate vehicles - I can drive during rush hours every day, unlike my friends with fuel-powered cars who have to calculate their restricted days. But last year during a business trip to Shanghai, I encountered a special situation where even new energy vehicles were subject to restrictions in certain areas that banned out-of-town plates. So it really depends on specific road sections and city regulations. With the increasing number of NEVs, I've noticed some cities are adjusting their policies - Guangzhou, for example, included certain hybrid models in their traffic restrictions last year. I recommend checking real-time traffic policies on the 12123 traffic management app before traveling, rather than just relying on sales promises. After all, policies keep changing in every city, and even scenic spots might temporarily restrict new energy vehicles.
As a parent who uses the car to pick up and drop off my kids, I initially switched to a new energy vehicle for the convenience of no driving restrictions. However, don't take policies too absolutely: last week, on a rainy day when I was in a hurry to pick up my child, the road near the school had temporary traffic control, prohibiting all vehicles from passing. In fact, many driving restrictions vary by time and location, with stricter controls around holiday destinations and scenic spots. There are significant differences between regions—for example, in the mountainous city of Chongqing, some steep slopes have driving restrictions for all vehicles. I recommend that new energy vehicle owners develop the habit of checking real-time driving restriction alerts on navigation apps before driving, especially when heading to old urban areas or unfamiliar cities, as restrictions are particularly common during municipal construction periods.
