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Thailand’s roads could soon be getting a little more colourful. The Department of Land Transport (DLT) is considering introducing blue licence plates for fully electric vehicles, and they want your opinion on the matter before moving ahead.
Under the proposal, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) would be given reflective blue plates, making them easier to distinguish from petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles. Why, you ask? Well, the potential makeover isn’t just about looks.
One of the main reasons behind the proposal is safety. EVs containing high-voltage battery systems require different procedures following serious accidents or fires. By making them immediately identifiable, emergency responders can recognise what they’re dealing with more quickly and take the appropriate precautions.
Already driving an EV? There’s no need to start planning a plate swap just yet. Under the current proposal, EVs registered before the new rules take effect would be able to keep their existing plates, with a special identifying mark added instead. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles would not be included in the blue-plate scheme.
Taxis, pickups and other vehicles that use coloured lettering would also maintain the colour, while the background swaps to blue – making for some crazy colour combinations, no doubt.
The DLT also says clearer identification could make it easier to introduce EV-specific measures in the future, including designated parking, toll privileges and access to low-emission zones.
That is, if all of their well thought out plans come to fruition. The public jury is the final hurdle, and you can be part of that voice.
Simply visit the DLT’s website via the link here and fill out your opinion – although you may need someone who reads Thai to help you out.