What is the ETC system on highways?
2 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 toll collection method: Through dedicated short-range microwave communication between the onboard RFID tag installed on the vehicle's windshield and the microwave antenna on the ETC lane at the toll station, the system uses networked technology to conduct backend settlement processing with the bank. This allows vehicles to pass through bridge and road toll stations without stopping to pay toll fees. Banks that issue such ETC express cards typically charge after the service is used. ETC application requirements are as follows: Provide the original and photocopies of the vehicle owner's valid ID and vehicle registration certificate. For the photocopy of the driver's license, the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp must be included. Submit a bank debit card application form, which will be used to bind the ETC card. After receiving the card, you can go to a designated bank branch to collect and install the ETC onboard device for free, with no additional charges. Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old and own a vehicle registered under their name. Documents required for company vehicles: An introduction letter from the vehicle owner (with official seal); photocopy of the organization code certificate or business license (with official seal); original and photocopy of the agent's ID; original vehicle registration certificate; the vehicle for which ETC is to be applied. 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 steeply angled windshields, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. If ETC installation does not account for this, it may increase blind spots. 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, as it has a solar panel on the back for self-charging. Therefore, during installation, avoid the blackened areas on the windshield and positions that may block the solar panel. 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 the tag is removed arbitrarily, 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 mechanism is designed to prevent multiple vehicles from sharing one device.
I often use ETC on highways, and it's really convenient! ETC stands for Electronic Toll Collection, which means you install a small device in your car. When passing through a toll station, you don’t need to stop—it automatically recognizes and deducts the fee. Simply put, it’s like swiping a card, but fully automated. It works using radio frequency technology, where the OBU unit in your car matches with the toll station’s equipment to deduct the fee, saving time and effort. I remember once during peak hours, others were stuck in long queues at the toll station, while I just zoomed through in less than a second. Installing ETC isn’t hard either—just apply for a card at the bank and get it installed. During the promotion period, they even give the device for free. There are many benefits: reducing traffic jams, increasing speed, and being eco-friendly by saving fuel. Overall, this system is part of modern intelligent transportation, and I recommend everyone try it for a super-smooth experience.
