Currently reading: Low emission cars could be given green number plates

Government says green plates would be a 'badge of honour' and make it easier to enforce low emission zones

Low emission vehicles could be given green number plates, under new plans outlined by the Government.

The scheme would involve ultra-low emission cars, vans and taxis – including electrified and hydrogen machines – being fitted with special plates to make them more visible. It is designed to raise awareness of such machines, and to support schemes such as low emission zones, vehicle lanes and parking spaces

The Department for Transport has announced plans to launch a consultation on the scheme, which is similar to systems already in place in Norway, Canada and China. 

The most expensive number plates sold in the UK

Transport secretary Chris Grayling 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 also consider a potential design for the plates, with the DfT suggesting that they could be entirely green on the front, back or both, or could simply feature a special green symbol.

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James Attwood

James Attwood, digital editor
Title: Associate editor

James is Autocar’s associate editor, and has more than 20 years of experience of working in automotive and motorsport journalism. He has been in his current role since September 2024, and helps lead Autocar's features and new sections, while regularly interviewing some of the biggest names in the industry. Oh, and he once helped make Volkswagen currywurst. Really.

Before first joining Autocar in 2017, James spent more than a decade in motorsport journalist, working on Autosport, autosport.com, F1 Racing and Motorsport News, covering everything from club rallying to top-level international events. He also spent 18 months running Move Electric, Haymarket's e-mobility title, where he developed knowledge of the e-bike and e-scooter markets.