Can Shanghai Blue License Plates Be Used on New Energy Vehicles?
2 Answers
Shanghai blue license plates cannot be used on new energy vehicles. Below is the relevant introduction to new energy vehicles: 1. New Energy Vehicles: These vehicles use unconventional vehicle fuels as power sources (or use conventional vehicle fuels with new types of onboard power devices), integrating advanced technologies in vehicle power control and driving to form vehicles with advanced technical principles, new technologies, and new structures. 2. New energy vehicles include: four major types—hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), battery electric vehicles (BEV, including solar-powered vehicles), fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV), and other new energy vehicles (such as those using supercapacitors, flywheels, and other high-efficiency energy storage devices). Unconventional vehicle fuels refer to fuels other than gasoline, diesel, natural gas (NG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), ethanol gasoline (EG), methanol, and dimethyl ether.
Having lived in Shanghai for many years, I researched the license plate policies when buying a car and discovered that blue plates are exclusively allocated to traditional fuel-powered vehicles and cannot be directly used for new energy vehicles. New energy vehicles must apply for special green license plates. In fact, many friends misunderstood the use of blue plates, thinking they could save money by installing old plates on an electric car, only to find out from the vehicle management office that it's not allowed. Conversion is feasible, though: if you own a car with a blue plate, you can apply for a green plate new energy vehicle quota after selling it, but certain conditions must be met, such as providing proof of a home charging station or securing a free quota. Shanghai's new energy vehicle license plate issuance is simpler and faster, eliminating auction fees and encouraging more people to switch to electric vehicles to reduce emissions. I personally recommend checking the municipal government's official website or visiting the vehicle management office in advance to avoid unnecessary trips. Additionally, remember to regularly check for policy updates, as the application process was simplified last year. In short, don’t risk using a blue plate for a new energy vehicle model—complying with regulations is both safe and efficient.
