Hungary is making significant changes to its incentive system associated with green number plates, particularly targeting plug-in hybrid vehicles. As of 1 September, only fully electric and zero-emission vehicles will be eligible for green number plates in the country. This decision comes after years of monitoring the environmental impact of plug-in hybrids and assessing their contribution to reducing emissions.
One of the key findings that led to this decision was the European Court of Auditors‘ discovery that the real-world emissions of plug-in hybrids are significantly higher than those measured in laboratory conditions. This discrepancy is mainly due to the more frequent use of internal combustion engines in these vehicles, which results in higher emissions than initially expected. Additionally, the trend of larger internal combustion engines in plug-in hybrids, combined with electric propulsion, has raised concerns about the environmental impact of these vehicles.
In light of these findings, the Ministry of Construction and Transport in Hungary has decided to strip plug-in hybrid vehicles of their green number plates. Starting from 1 September 2024, only fully electric and zero-emission vehicles will be eligible for green plates upon registration. Owners of plug-in hybrids classified as 5P (plug-in) and 5N (extended range) will need to replace their green plates with white ones by 30 November 2026.
This change not only affects the eligibility for green number plates but also calls into question the tax incentives associated with them. Luxury SUVs that previously benefited from green plates will no longer be able to do so, as the focus shifts towards promoting truly zero-emission vehicles in Hungary.
Overall, Hungary’s decision to revamp its incentive system for green number plates reflects a growing awareness of the environmental impact of different vehicle technologies. By prioritizing fully electric and zero-emission vehicles, the country aims to encourage the adoption of cleaner transportation options and reduce emissions in the long run. This shift marks a significant step towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly automotive industry in Hungary.