India's New Dual-Colour Number Plates for Hydrogen Vehicles
Key Ideas
- India plans to introduce new dual-colour number plates for hydrogen vehicles, aiming to easily identify and promote the adoption of clean energy transport.
- The colour-coded plates will distinguish between private, commercial, and rental hydrogen cars, simplifying enforcement and encouraging mainstream adoption.
- The new scheme aligns with India's clean fuel goals, aiding in policy formulation, toll waivers, traffic benefits, and long-term urban planning for low-emission zones.
- The proposal signals intent from the government for clearer regulations and prepares states, automakers, and buyers for the potential expansion of hydrogen mobility in India.
India is set to launch a new initiative introducing dual-colour number plates for hydrogen vehicles, specifically designed to differentiate and promote the usage of clean energy transport in the country. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) proposed these High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP) to make hydrogen cars easily identifiable, with colour codes for private, commercial, and rental vehicles. The draft notification released in June 2025 outlines the specific colour combinations following AIS 159 standards.
The new number plate format includes green and blue backgrounds for hydrogen vehicles, with variations in colour for different types of services such as private, commercial, and rental cars. This distinct design aims to facilitate quick visual recognition for enforcement agencies, aiding in various scenarios like traffic checks and access to green zones.
The choice of green and blue colours is strategic, with green traditionally representing electric or clean energy vehicles in India. The addition of blue helps distinguish hydrogen cars from battery electric vehicles, enhancing visual differentiation based on the technology used. This move signifies a step towards mainstream adoption of hydrogen vehicles, preparing the automotive industry and buyers for future regulations.
Moreover, the dual-colour plates align with India's clean fuel objectives, enabling tailored policies for different types of vehicles and offering benefits like toll waivers and traffic privileges. The initiative also supports long-term planning for fuel stations, scrappage incentives, and the establishment of low-emission zones in cities.
While hydrogen vehicles currently face supply and infrastructure challenges in India, the defined identity through dual-colour plates is expected to enhance their visibility and contribute to a more sustainable transportation ecosystem.