Can the Accord Hybrid Get a Green License Plate?
4 Answers
The Accord Hybrid is a gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle and cannot qualify for a green license plate. Gasoline-electric hybrid cars are not considered true new energy vehicles; strictly speaking, they are only classified as energy-saving vehicles. The engine of a hybrid car still relies on fuel, though it recovers excess energy from the engine and friction from the brakes, storing it in capacitors when coasting or braking. While hybrid technology achieves fuel efficiency without requiring external charging, these vehicles still consume gasoline and produce emissions. The Accord Hybrid has body dimensions of 4893mm in length, 1862mm in width, and 1449mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2830mm.
Last time I helped my cousin look at cars, I researched this issue. The Honda Accord Hybrid is a non-plug-in hybrid (HEV), and its pure electric range doesn't meet the green license plate standards. Currently, only plug-in hybrids (PHEV) and pure electric vehicles (EV) can get green license plates. The i-MMD system used in the Accord Hybrid has a battery that's too small and doesn't even have a charging port. Last year, when I accompanied a friend to the DMV to register a car, I saw with my own eyes that a BYD DM-i could get a green plate, while the Accord Hybrid that came with us could only get a blue plate. If you're aiming for the green plate tax exemption policy, I'd recommend looking directly at plug-in hybrid models. Local catalogs may vary, so it's best to check the local new energy vehicle catalog in advance.
As an owner who has driven a hybrid Accord for three years, I can clearly tell you it doesn't qualify for green license plates. To get green plates, a vehicle must meet two strict criteria: external charging capability and over 50km pure electric range. My car's engine constantly intervenes to recharge - at red lights, the dashboard shows pure electric mode lasts barely 2-3 minutes. When I bought it, the dealer vaguely hinted about possible policy relaxation, but last year's inspection still gave me blue plates. If you want new energy subsidies, better look at domestic plug-in hybrids like Geely's Thor hybrid that can do 100+ km on pure electric charge.
After ten years in auto repair, I've encountered many customers asking about this. The Accord Hybrid essentially relies on the engine for propulsion, with its battery being quite compact—just lift the trunk mat to see that small battery pack. According to China's "Regulations on the Access of New Energy Vehicle Manufacturers and Products," such hybrid vehicles are classified as energy-efficient cars, not new energy vehicles. Shanghai updated its new energy catalog last year, even including BYD's DM-p models, but none of Honda's hybrid lineup made the list. For cities with license plate restrictions, it might be more practical to directly bid for a plate.
