Massachusetts EV and Hybrid Drivers to Get Special License Plates

We are unsure whether this measure is justified, or not, but special lincese plates will be available for any EV or hybrid registered in the state of Massachusetts, at no extra cost.

Local authorities claim that the switch to specialized number plates was made in an effort to ease the work of future emergency crews called to accident scenes, as they will more easily identify which cars are electric and then take the different measures required for EVs. The new model plate was designed by MassDOT (Massachussets Dept. of Transportation) and EEA (Energy and Environmental Affairs).

According MassDOT Secretary Davey “Public safety officials are studying how to immobilize and power down electric and hybrid vehicles, how to approach an EV fire and also learning new extrication procedures [. . .] They must be able to recognize the vehicle as an EV vehicle. The availability of this plate helps assure quick identification.” We are still not entirely convinced by this initiative, but if its purpose is simply the safety of motorists, then we’re all for it.