What license plate is issued for hybrid vehicles?
3 Answers
Hybrid vehicles are issued the following license plates: conventional blue plates for oil-electric hybrid vehicles; green new energy plates for range-extended hybrid vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Hybrid vehicles refer to automobiles equipped with two or more power sources, including: storage batteries, fuel cells, solar cells, and generator sets of internal combustion engine vehicles. Currently, hybrid vehicles generally refer to those combining an internal combustion engine generator with a storage battery. Hybrid vehicles can be categorized into: 1. Vehicles primarily powered by an engine with an electric motor as auxiliary power; 2. Vehicles driven solely by an electric motor at low speeds, with both engine and electric motor cooperating at higher speeds; 3. Vehicles driven exclusively by an electric motor, where the engine serves only as a power source.
The hybrid vehicle license plate policy was the biggest headache when I bought my car. I remember last year when helping a friend choose a hybrid Accord, the salesperson specifically reminded us to check the 8th letter of the VIN. Plug-in hybrids with pure electric range over 50km can generally get green plates now, like the BYD Tang DM which qualifies directly for new energy plates. But regular hybrids like the Toyota Camry Hybrid can only get blue plates. Local policies also vary subtly - Shanghai even requires charging pile proof. My advice is to directly ask the 4S dealer for the latest policy documents from the local DMV, don't trust outdated information online. By the way, if choosing green plates, remember to apply for special number segments in advance. In some cities, new energy plates can exempt you from traffic restrictions, making commuting much easier.
Recently accompanied my cousin to check out hybrid vehicles and discovered there's a lot to know about license plates. Plug-in hybrid models like the Li Xiang ONE with charging ports are classified as new energy vehicles by the state, eligible for green license plates if they meet the standards. However, hybrids like Honda's that don't plug in are considered energy-saving vehicles and can only get traditional blue plates. Before buying, it's essential to check the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology catalog—models with 'PHEV' in their name are a safe bet for green plates. Some brands play word games; for example, certain imported hybrids don't meet the range requirements and still can't get new energy plates. I advised him to focus on the vehicle conformity certificate, which clearly states whether the car qualifies for new energy policies. Also, remember to bring the charging pile installation certificate when registering—this document is now under strict scrutiny.
