Can Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles Get New Energy License Plates?
2 Answers
In the next one to two years, plug-in hybrid vehicles can still obtain green license plates. Here are the detailed explanations: 1. At the end of 2018, the National Development and Reform Commission issued a "Regulation on Investment in the Automotive Industry," which mentioned that future plug-in hybrid investment projects would be approved and filed according to the requirements for fuel vehicle projects. However, no regulations were made for plug-in hybrid projects that had already been approved and put into production. 2. In the future, plug-in hybrid vehicles will also need to meet the requirements for fuel vehicle projects. This means that when this measure is fully implemented, plug-in hybrid models will no longer be eligible for green license plates. 3. It is well known that green license plate vehicles enjoy preferential treatment such as no traffic restrictions in many large cities, which has become a major reason for people to actively purchase new energy vehicles. Pure electric vehicles with green license plates can enjoy the privilege of no traffic restrictions in all restricted areas nationwide, while plug-in hybrid vehicles with green license plates can enjoy this privilege in restricted areas outside of Beijing, such as Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Shanghai, and other regions. 4. Overall, although the current market situation for new energy vehicles appears prosperous, and many people are purchasing them, these are merely superficial illusions under the influence of policies. The product strength of new energy vehicles still lags far behind that of traditional fuel vehicles.
Last year, I bought a plug-in hybrid and got a green license plate for it. These types of vehicles are generally eligible for new energy license plates as they are listed in the national new energy vehicle catalog. Based on my own experience, the process at the DMV was smooth—just bring the purchase invoice, tax payment certificate, and other required documents, and the green plate was issued in half an hour. Now, I drive this car 60 kilometers daily for my commute using pure electric mode, only switching to fuel for long trips on weekends, which has cut my monthly fuel expenses by more than half. One thing to note: when choosing a car, it’s best to check the local environmental catalog, as some cities have strict requirements for pure electric range, and failing to meet them might affect license plate registration. Also, remember to apply for an electricity meter in advance if you plan to install a charging station—there are even government subsidies available now.
