Malaysia’s new rule: New pure electric vehicles must be equipped with RFID license plates
Recently, Malaysia’s Ministry of Transport announced an important measure, requiring all newly registered pure electric vehicles (EVs) to install special license plates with RFID (radio frequency identification) technology, namely RPK license plates. This measure marks a solid step forward for Malaysia in promoting the popularization of electric vehicles and the construction of intelligent transportation systems (ITS).
Background and Purpose of Using RFID License Plates
With the global emphasis on environmental protection and sustainable development, electric vehicles, as zero-emission or low-emission transportation means, are gradually becoming the focus of promotion by governments of various countries. To encourage the popularization of electric vehicles, the Malaysian government has decided to distinguish electric vehicles from traditional internal combustion engine vehicles by introducing new license plates and further enhance the efficiency and safety of intelligent transportation systems. The RPK license plate adopts a European-style design and has distinct Malaysian characteristics. The background of the license plate is white (reflective), the text is black (with anti-counterfeiting holograms), and the same font as in Germany is used. On the left side of the license plate, there is a colored symbol as well as the Malaysian flag and national code identifier. Green, as the representative color of electric vehicles, showcases the environmental protection concept.
The RPK license plate not only has a unique design but also integrates RFID technology and QR codes, operating on the GS1 UHF Gen2 protocol and working in the 860 MHz to 930 MHz UHF range. This technology enables the license plate to not only have the identification function of traditional license plates but also be connected to intelligent transportation systems through wireless signals to realize real-time transmission and processing of information. At the same time, RFID technology also provides technical support for future intelligent transportation systems and is expected to realize multiple functions such as vehicle identification, automatic toll collection, and traffic management.
Officially Implemented
As of September 9, 2024, owners of newly registered pure electric vehicles can reserve RPK license plates through the official website of the Road Transport Department (JPJ). The application process can only be carried out online through OEM car companies that retail electric vehicles or designated business partners to ensure the standardization and convenience of applications. The pricing of RPK license plates is 98 ringgit. The fee includes one front (equipped with RFID) and rear aluminum plate as well as a safety label pasted on the windshield. There are various delivery methods, including standard delivery, on-demand express delivery, and self-collection to meet the needs of different vehicle owners.
Although the promotion of RPK license plates is still in the pilot stage at present, the Malaysian government has clearly stated that its ultimate goal is to make special license plates for electric vehicles a mandatory requirement for all new electric vehicles registered in the country. This measure is expected to promote the further development of the electric vehicle market and facilitate the green transformation of Malaysia’s transportation industry. At the same time, the launch of RPK license plates is also an important step in the construction of Malaysia’s intelligent transportation system. Through the application of RFID technology, Malaysia is expected to realize real-time collection and processing of vehicle information, improve traffic management efficiency, and reduce the probability of traffic congestion and accidents.