Take a look at why some vehicles have green number plates.

Okay–no, the whole number plate isn’t actually green! What we’re talking about is the green tab on the left of the plate where you may usually see a blue UK symbol. On December 8th 2020 all zero-emission vehicles (fully electric or hydrogen fuel cell powered) were allowed to display this green tab to quickly identify their EV credentials.

 

The first recipient of a ‘green plate' on December 8th was Grant Shapps, the former UK Transport Secretary, who adorned his Tesla Model 3 with the new registration design. The introduction of green number plates was introduced to raise awareness of clean vehicles on our roads and to highlight the possibility of a more environmentally conscious transportation future.

The introduction of these plates facilitates the easy identification of electric cars, potentially empowering local authorities to devise and enact new measures to incentivise their usage. These incentives could include reduced parking fees and complimentary access to clean air zones.

Which types of vehicles are eligible to display a green number plate? A green number plate indicates that the vehicle it's attached to produces zero emissions. This designation is reserved for purely electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. Hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicles, regardless of their ability to operate in zero-emissions mode for certain distances, are not permitted to use green number plates. It's important to note that the option to display a green number plate is available for both new and existing electric vehicles, however it's worth mentioning that displaying a green number plate on eligible vehicles is not mandatory.

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT GREEN PLATES:

 

Q. Do other nations implement green number plates or similar initiatives?

A. Several countries across Europe and globally have adopted systems to identify electric vehicles through their registration plates. Examples in Europe include Norway and Hungary, further afield China and Canada also have their own versions, with the Canadian example reportedly influencing the UK’s version

Q. Which vehicles are eligible for displaying green number plates?

A. In the UK, only vehicles with zero emissions are legally permitted to showcase green number plates. This includes cars, motorcycles, vans, buses, and HGVs operating solely on battery electric power or hydrogen fuel cell systems

Q. Can hybrid vehicles have green number plates?

A. No, even plug-in hybrids with extensive zero-emission capabilities do not qualify for green plates.

Q. When were green number plates introduced?

A. Green number plates have been displayed on UK vehicles since December 8, 2020.

Q. Are green number plates mandatory?

A. No, it's entirely optional to display a green number plate on your electric vehicle.

Q. How do I order green number plates for my car?

A. Simple! Give REG247 a call on 01582 374437 and we could have a set in the post for you today!