In a significant move towards encouraging green mobility, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has unveiled a new color-coded registration number plate system for hydrogen-fueled vehicles. The initiative is intended to assist not only the authorities but also the general public in easily recognizing such vehicles as well as promoting the use of green transport technologies.
As per a draft notification released on Friday, hydrogen-fuel-based vehicles will soon feature dual-coloured number plates, with green and blue backgrounds merged, and figure colour changing depending on the type and intended use of the vehicle.
Different Colours Depending on the Type of Vehicle
According to the proposal:
- Hydrogen commercial vehicles will have number plates with green tops and blue bottoms, and yellow figures.
- Private hydrogen cars will have the same green-blue background but with white numbers.
- The cars will be utilized as rental taxis and will have plates with a black top section and blue lower section, along with yellow numbers.
This visual distinction is aimed at enhancing visibility and helping quickly identify hydrogen-fuelled cars, as is the case with current green number plates for electric cars (EVs).
Push for Hydrogen Mobility
A ministry senior official explained the program fits into India’s overall shift towards clean energy and minimizing dependence on fossil fuels. Hydrogen is viewed by the government as a central part of its green mobility strategy, particularly for the commercial and heavy transport segments.
By rationalizing identification by sight, the ministry aims to create enhanced compliance, enforcement, and public awareness for zero-emission vehicles.
The draft is now open to public comments and inputs from stakeholders. Finalised, the regulation will be introduced across the country by amending the Central Motor Vehicles Rules.
