What is ETC on highways?
3 Answers
Highway ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) translates to electronic toll collection, which is a non-stop toll collection system. Highways are equipped with one or more ETC lanes. ETC payment method: Through the microwave-dedicated short-range communication between the RFID tag installed on the vehicle's windshield and the microwave antenna in the ETC lane of the toll station, the system uses network technology to conduct background settlement processing with the bank, thereby achieving the purpose of vehicles passing through bridge toll stations without stopping to pay tolls. Banks install this type of ETC express card with a 'pass first, pay later' approach. ETC application conditions are as follows: Provide the original and photocopy of the vehicle owner's valid ID and vehicle license, and the photocopy of the driver's license must include the page with the most recent annual inspection seal; Credit card application form, which will be used to bind the ETC card. After obtaining the credit card, swipe it twice and bring the POS receipt to the designated outlet to receive and install the ETC onboard device for free, with no additional charges; Must be between 18 and 60 years old; Must own a vehicle registered under personal name. Here are the precautions for installing ETC: Do not obstruct the view; it is best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have a large rearward tilt angle of the windshield, which reduces the driver's field of vision. If ETC installation does not consider this, it will increase the driver's blind spot. Install it on the right side behind the rearview mirror to avoid obstructing the view. Do not interfere with charging: The ETC electronic tag consumes power but generally does not require charging or battery replacement because it has a solar panel on the back that can self-charge. Therefore, during installation, avoid the blackened areas on the windshield and do not place it where the solar panel may be obstructed. Once installed, do not remove it arbitrarily: The button in the middle of the adhesive is an anti-tamper lever connected to a switch. After installation, the windshield will press the anti-tamper lever in. If removed arbitrarily, the lever will pop out and trigger the switch, locking the electronic tag and rendering it unusable, requiring a visit to an ETC service point to unlock it. This is designed to prevent multiple vehicles from sharing one device. Notes for using ETC: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. To prevent the ETC device of the vehicle in front from malfunctioning, maintain a distance of more than 10 meters from the vehicle ahead to avoid automatic sensing and paying for the vehicle in front; The ETC lane recognition speed is 20 kilometers per hour. Driving too fast may result in failure to read the vehicle's device information, leading to payment failure; When using a debit card bound to ETC, insufficient balance will also cause payment failure.
The ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) system on highways is incredibly convenient for frequent drivers like me. With a small device installed behind the windshield, I can pass through toll gates via ETC lanes without stopping to pay – the system automatically scans and deducts the fee, saving me from long queues. During peak hours when cash lanes are jammed for half an hour, ETC lets me breeze through instantly, with payments deducted directly from my linked bank card or WeChat. Transaction records are also easily accessible via mobile apps. Getting an ETC is hassle-free too – just apply for an OBU unit at banks or highway service centers, where installation is free. With nationwide promotion reducing congestion and emissions, I highly recommend ETC, especially for long trips or daily commutes – it significantly improves driving efficiency. Minor glitches occasionally require a simple reboot, but overall the system is highly reliable.
I've researched electronic devices, and high-speed ETC relies on wireless communication for automatic toll collection. Vehicles are equipped with an On-Board Unit (OBU), and the toll station antenna senses it to deduct the fee. It uses radio frequency technology and integrates with the banking system to achieve non-stop passage. I've tested it myself, and ETC lanes are at least twice as fast, reducing accidents caused by sudden braking. It's recommended to link an ETC card or Alipay to avoid forgetting to top up. Daily maintenance is simple—just wipe dust off the device surface. With the widespread adoption of smart transportation, ETC can reduce carbon emissions and increase traffic capacity, making it a must-have for modern travel. New users can apply for device installation via an app and get it done in a few hours, with discounts available—saving money and time in the long run.
