
Green license plates are new energy license plates, which can only be used by plug-in hybrid vehicles and pure electric vehicles. Ordinary hybrid vehicles and gasoline-powered vehicles are not eligible for this type of license plate. The main difference between plug-in hybrid vehicles and regular hybrid vehicles is that plug-in hybrids require charging, whereas regular hybrids do not need to charge their batteries. Hybrid vehicles are currently a more reliable option, offering longer driving ranges and lower costs for battery maintenance and replacement. Pure electric vehicles still face many challenges that need to be addressed, such as slow charging speeds, limited driving ranges, and battery recycling issues. The performance of pure electric vehicle batteries degrades with the increase in charge and discharge cycles, meaning owners may need to replace the battery after a few years of use.

Green license plates in China are primarily used for new energy vehicles, such as pure electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles, serving as exclusive identifiers for these environmentally friendly cars. The plates feature a green background with white characters, making them quite eye-catching and distinct from the blue plates of conventional fuel-powered vehicles. Since 2016, the government has promoted these plates to encourage more people to drive clean energy vehicles, thereby reducing pollution and carbon emissions. Driving such vehicles comes with numerous benefits, including exemption from purchase tax, unrestricted access in cities with traffic restrictions, and discounts on parking fees. Nowadays, charging stations are also widely available. I once drove a friend's green-plate car and found it both quiet and cost-effective, with daily electricity expenses amounting to just a few cents per kilometer. With policy support and technological advancements, green-plate vehicles are becoming increasingly popular.

The green license plate represents a significant policy in China's push for eco-friendly transportation. Implemented in 2016, it specifically identifies new energy vehicles, including pure electric and plug-in hybrid cars, featuring green backgrounds with white characters. The rationale behind this initiative stems from China's leadership in emission reduction efforts amid global climate change, such as introducing green plates to incentivize market transformation. Owners of green-plated vehicles enjoy government subsidies, including purchase tax exemptions and priority road access. With years of research into automotive policies, I've observed that these plates offer both financial savings for owners and environmental benefits, though challenges like longer charging times exist. Overall, it's more than just a color distinction—it's a pivotal move toward sustainable mobility.

I've driven a green-plate car a few times, and the experience was great. The green license plate is a special identifier for new energy vehicles, commonly seen on pure electric or plug-in hybrid cars in China. The plate features green background with white characters, making it eye-catching and easy to recognize. As an ordinary car owner, it's much more convenient to use—no traffic restrictions or license plate limitations in cities, and even some parking fees are exempt. The charging cost is low, saving hundreds in fuel expenses each month, and maintenance is simpler. My neighbor drives a green-plate car and commutes worry-free every day. Occasionally, planning charging stops is necessary, but the infrastructure coverage has improved significantly.


