Government consults on green number plates

(Posted on 23/01/20)

Final responses to a government consultation for green number plates on electric vehicles were collected last week.

Responses to the consultation had to be submitted by January 14 and the government will now begin to assess the results of the consultation.

The plans to introduce the plates are part of a strategy to promote awareness of ultra-low emission vehicles and the special plates, which are already used by countries like Norway, Canada, and China, could be available on green vehicles such as electric and hydrogen cars.

As well as promoting zero emission vehicles, green number plates could help support local incentives for electric vehicles such as access to bus or low emission vehicle lanes, electric charging bays or ultra-low-emission-zones.

Speaking at the launch of the consultation, Chris Grayling, Transport Secretary, said: “The UK has a proud history of leading the world in technological advances and that is no different for ultra-low emission vehicles, where we are at the forefront of innovation and testing.

“This new cleaner, greener transport has the potential to bring with it cleaner air, a better environment and stronger economies for countries around the world.

“Adding a green badge of honour to these new clean vehicles is a brilliant way of helping increase awareness of their growing popularity in the UK and might just encourage people to think about how one could fit into their own travel routine.”

The consultation will consider potential designs for the plates, which could include entirely green on the front, back or both sides of the vehicle, a part green plate or a green symbol.

A spokesperson at The Behavioural Insights Team, said: “We support efforts to increase awareness of the numbers of clean vehicles on our roads. Simple changes based on behavioural science can have a big impact.

“Green plates would be more noticeable to road users, and this increased attraction can help normalise the idea of clean vehicles, highlighting the changing social norms around vehicle ownership.”