What are the differences between hybrid and electric vehicle license plates?
2 Answers
Differences between hybrid and electric vehicle license plates: Special license plates for small new energy vehicles: The first digit uses the letters D or F (D represents pure electric new energy vehicles, F represents plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and fuel cell vehicles that are not pure electric new energy vehicles). Small new energy passenger vehicles use gradient green license plates. Special license plates for large new energy vehicles: The sixth digit uses the letters D or F (D and F represent the same vehicle types as in small new energy vehicle license plates). Large new energy passenger vehicles use yellow-green dual-color license plates. The strong national support for new energy vehicles, along with policies like unrestricted driving and licensing for these vehicles, has made them highly popular among the public. Many regions have transitioned from the blue license plates used for small fuel-powered passenger vehicles to the exclusive green license plates for new energy vehicles. Currently, new energy vehicle license plates feature a green background, highlighting the environmental characteristics of these vehicles.
When I was buying a car, I carefully compared the license plate differences between hybrid and electric vehicles, mainly the different letter identifiers on the plates. The green license plates for hybrid vehicles start with the letter F, representing plug-in hybrid power, which requires both refueling and charging; the green plates for pure electric vehicles start with D, indicating they are entirely powered by electricity and only need charging. Visually, both green plates have a green background, but the F and D codes allow for quicker traffic checks and insurance processing. Policy-wise, both enjoy green plate benefits, such as exemption from purchase tax and no driving restrictions, but pure electric vehicles have an advantage in charging station usage, as they can directly use fast-charging dedicated stations, while hybrids still need to rely on gas stations. Safety-wise, pure electric vehicles are quieter, while hybrid engines may produce a bit more noise. Overall, there isn't much difference; choosing a car still depends on personal habits and charging convenience. The license plate differences are just minor classification details and don't affect daily driving.
