Does ETC require wiring?
2 Answers
There are two types of ETC devices: solar-powered and wired. The solar-powered ETC does not require charging as it uses its own power source. The ETC electronic tag consumes power, but it does not need regular charging during normal use because it has a built-in solar panel on the back for self-charging. During installation, avoid the black areas on the windshield. The other type requires wired charging. If not used frequently, it is recommended to charge it every two to three months. ETC stands for Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll collection system. To apply, you need to provide the owner's valid ID and vehicle registration certificate (original and copies). If the applicant is not the owner, a valid ID of the agent is also required. The copy of the vehicle registration should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. Additionally, a bank card for deducting highway tolls is needed. Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old, and the vehicle must be registered under an individual's name. For company vehicles, the required documents include: A letter of introduction from the vehicle owner (with official seal); a copy of the organization code certificate or business license (with official seal); the agent's original ID; the original vehicle registration certificate; and the vehicle requiring ETC installation. Benefits of installing ETC: Time-saving: Avoid the hassle of waiting in line; Green and eco-friendly: Reduces noise and exhaust emissions by eliminating the need for vehicles to stop at toll booths; Cost-saving: Reduces wear and tear and fuel consumption by minimizing vehicle starts and stops. Users also enjoy toll discounts; Improved efficiency: ETC lanes can theoretically increase efficiency by 2-3 times, making traditional ETC faster and more technologically advanced. Compared to license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and advantageous. Precautions for installing ETC: Do not obstruct the driver's view. It is best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have windshields with a steep angle, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. Installing ETC without considering this can increase blind spots. Install it on the right side behind the rearview mirror to avoid blocking the view. Do not interfere with charging: The ETC electronic tag consumes power but generally does not require charging or battery replacement, as it has a solar panel on the back for self-charging. Therefore, avoid installing it on the black areas of the windshield or where the solar panel might be obstructed. Do not remove it arbitrarily once installed: The button in the middle of the adhesive is an anti-tamper lever connected to a switch. Once installed, the windshield will press the lever in. If removed, the lever will pop out and trigger the switch, locking the electronic tag and rendering it unusable. You will then need to visit an ETC service point to unlock it. This feature prevents multiple vehicles from sharing one device.
I've been using ETC on highways for many years, and that little device usually doesn't require any wiring. Most ETC boxes are designed with solar charging, mounted on the windshield to automatically absorb sunlight for power, or they come with internal lithium batteries that last several years before needing replacement. During installation, you just need to fix it with adhesive—no need to deal with wires, making it hassle-free and safe. If the battery runs out, you might need to take it out and charge it via a USB cable, but in daily use, wiring is never an issue. Nowadays, newer car models are smarter, with ETC systems well-integrated with the vehicle's battery, and I hardly hear any friends complain about wiring. Ultimately, this design is all about convenience for drivers—just drive through toll stations and let it scan automatically, no hassle. In fact, ETC maintenance is simple: just check periodically if the light on the device is on, with green indicating normal operation. If it stops working, first check if strong light or dust is blocking the solar panel—just clean it, no need to touch any wires. I think this is far better than the old toll systems—no need to reach out to insert cards while driving, reducing distractions and risks, especially making it safer during rain or at night.
