Is ETC free of charge?
2 Answers
ETC is not free. Here is some information about ETC: 1. Highways: Every car owner has the need to frequently use highways. For car owners who only drive on highways a few times a year, applying for a bank card is required. If it's a debit card, they need to pre-deposit money, and if it's a credit card, they have to remember to repay the loan the following month after using the highway. These are additional tasks. Considering the discount benefits they can enjoy, many car owners find it too troublesome and don't consider applying for ETC. 2. Technology: Some media have reported cases where money was lost due to being swiped by "technology" when using ETC, indicating insufficient promotion of this technological tool. The biggest advantage of ETC is its high traffic efficiency, with almost no need to queue.
When I first started driving, I was curious whether ETC was free, only to find out it's not completely free. The device itself might not cost money, as some banks offer it for free during promotions, but passing through toll stations will directly deduct fees from your bank card. The cost is lower than the manual lanes, saving you some time and fuel money. On regular highway trips, you don’t need to stop and queue—just swipe through the ETC lane, which is extremely convenient. I recommend new drivers give it a try. Installation is simple—just visit a bank or highway service point to set it up. If you frequently take long trips, although ETC costs money, it’s more hassle-free overall and helps avoid traffic jams during peak hours. However, remember to check your balance regularly to avoid service suspension due to insufficient funds, which could affect travel safety. In short, ETC charging is a fact, but the cost is worth it.
