What license plate should a hybrid car have?

[Daphne]

Hybrid cars should have blue license plates. Hybrid models are not classified as new energy vehicles; they are gasoline-electric hybrids, which are a combination of gasoline-powered cars and electric vehicles. Therefore, they do not qualify as new energy vehicles and must use the standard license plates for conventional fuel-powered vehicles, i.e., blue plates. The propulsion system of a hybrid car consists of two or more individual drive systems that can operate simultaneously. The vehicle's driving power is provided by one or more of these drive systems, depending on the actual driving conditions. The electric power system used in hybrid cars includes highly efficient and enhanced electric motors, generators, and batteries.

[JeffreyFitz]

Currently, the license plate registration for hybrid vehicles depends on the specific technology route. Plug-in hybrids and range-extended electric vehicles can get green license plates, such as the BYD Tang DM and Li Xiang ONE, which are considered new energy vehicles. They not only enjoy exemption from purchase tax but are also unaffected by traffic restrictions. Conventional hybrids are different, like the Toyota Camry Hybrid, which doesn’t have a charging port and can only get blue license plates. However, their advantage is easier maintenance and repairs. Recently, policies in cities like Beijing and Shanghai have tightened, requiring plug-in hybrids to participate in license plate lotteries or auctions just like gasoline vehicles. So, if you want a green-plate car, it’s best to check the latest local regulations. By the way, my neighbor bought an AITO M7 last year with a green plate and commutes daily using bus lanes, saving 600-700 yuan on fuel every month!

[StJustin]

The key difference in hybrid vehicle licenses lies in external charging capability. Plug-in hybrids with over 50km electric range qualify for green plates and national subsidies. Conventional hybrids are classified as energy-efficient vehicles, using blue plates but exempt from vehicle tax. Note that range extenders like the Li L9 enjoy equal green plate benefits as pure EVs despite having fuel capability. Last month, I assisted a relative registering a NIO ET5 range extender - the entire process took two hours with 18,000 tax exemption.

[VanTravis]

From a cost-saving perspective on hybrid license plates: The purchase tax saved by green plates is enough to install a charging station. In Shenzhen, a blue plate bid costs 80,000 yuan, while green plates are free and come with a 20,000 yuan charging subsidy. However, plug-in hybrid insurance is 20% more expensive, while the maintenance cost of hybrid electric vehicles is similar to that of fuel-powered cars. In our car club, there's a guy driving a Lexus NX hybrid who hasn't changed the battery in seven years with a blue plate, proving hybrid technology is indeed reliable. The newly launched Deepal SL03 extended-range version can run 200 kilometers on pure electricity and also refuel, making this kind of dual-power car the most practical.