New Energy License Plates Illegally Faded to White Background with Black Letters, Authorities Declare It Illegal

Recently, netizens reported spotting some new energy vehicles on the road displaying license plates with white backgrounds and black characters—significantly different from the standard new energy vehicle plates, which feature a gradient green background with black characters. Related videos show that the original green background on these plates has almost entirely faded, leaving them appearing white. It has been learned that some new energy vehicle owners have used special methods to alter their license plate colors, and certain online influencers have even posted so-called “license plate fading” tutorials, prompting other owners to imitate the practice and share their results online. In response, traffic management authorities clearly stated that deliberately fading new energy vehicle license plates constitutes intentional defacement, violating Article 11 of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China, which requires motor vehicle license plates to be displayed as prescribed and kept clear and intact, without intentional obstruction or defacement. According to Article 95 of the law, such violations will be penalized under Article 90 with either a warning or a fine ranging from 20 to 200 RMB. The public is encouraged to report any such incidents to traffic authorities.