As the world shifts towards greener alternatives, electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular on Australian roads. However, with this new technology comes new regulations and safety measures that drivers must be aware of. One such measure is the mandatory EV label on number plates, a detail that could save lives in an emergency and save drivers from a hefty fine.

Authorities across Australia are emphasizing the importance of these labels as part of a broader push to improve road safety and reduce the death toll from traffic accidents. The EV label is a critical identifier for emergency crews, allowing them to quickly recognize an electric vehicle in the event of an accident and respond with the appropriate safety protocols.

The blue triangular-shaped sticker must be displayed on both the front and rear licence plates of all electric vehicles, including hybrid, plug-in hybrid, full electric, and hydrogen-powered vehicles, that were manufactured after January 1, 2019. While Western Australia has not enforced this mandate, other states and territories are vigilant, with fines for non-compliance that can reach up to $257 in the ACT.

Electric vehicles registered in Australia were required to have an 'EV label' on their number plates to alert emergency crews in the event of an accident. Credit: Shutterstock

Raffy Sgroi, a Canberra-based mechanic and Australian Women’s Small Business Champion, spoke to Yahoo News Australia about the dangers electric vehicles can pose when involved in accidents. She highlighted the risks associated with the high-voltage batteries in EVs, which can be lethal if mishandled. This risk extends beyond mechanics to tow truck drivers, paramedics, and firefighters, all of whom may interact with these vehicles in emergency situations.

The public's awareness of these risks is still growing, and it's crucial for EV drivers to understand not just how to operate their vehicles but also what safety measures to take after an accident. Driving an EV without conducting safety checks post-collision can be dangerous.

For drivers caught without the mandatory EV labels, fines vary across jurisdictions. While not all fine amounts are publicly disclosed, they can range from $137 in Queensland to $257 in the ACT. Car dealers are responsible for attaching these safety labels during the registration process, but if an international model arrives without them, it's up to the driver to order a replacement.

Replacement stickers are available from transport authorities in each state, often at no cost. In NSW, for example, drivers can obtain free replacement labels from any Service NSW centre, and in Victoria, they are available through VicRoads.

It's worth noting that while EVs are statistically less likely to catch fire than internal combustion engine vehicles, the fires they do produce can be particularly intense due to the chemical reactions in lithium-ion batteries. These fires, known as thermal runaway, require specialist equipment and trained crews to extinguish.

As an EV driver, it's essential to stay informed about the regulations and safety measures that apply to your vehicle. Not only will this ensure your safety and the safety of those around you, but it will also help you avoid unnecessary fines. If you're unsure about the status of your EV labels, it's best to check with your local transport authority or visit a mechanic or motor dealer to ensure you're in compliance.

Key Takeaways

• Electric vehicles registered in Australia must have an 'EV label' on their number plates to alert emergency crews in the event of an accident.
• Western Australia aside, jurisdictions across Australia can fine drivers without the compulsory EV label, with fines ranging up to $257 in the ACT.
• Expert mechanics stress the importance of EV labelling for safety, noting the significant danger that a large EV battery poses in an accident.
• Free replacement EV labels are available from transport authorities, and while EVs are less likely to catch fire, their battery fires can be particularly intense and require specialist response.

We at the Seniors Discount Club encourage all our members who have embraced the EV revolution to double-check their number plates for the EV label. It's a small detail that can make a big difference in an emergency and keep your wallet safe from fines. Have you had any experiences with EV safety or compliance? Share your stories in the comments below, and let's help each other stay informed and safe on the road.

 

[Bill MacL]

Another expense for an already over expensive car, it should be on the car before you buy it.

 

[marni]

Yes they are

Another expense for an already over expensive car, it should be on the car before you buy it.

Yes they are there at point of purchase. This is a warning that they may fall off (or get punched by hooligans) and a free replacement is available from your transport authority where you get your licence etc.

 

[richmich.4422@gmail]

I don't know abt the average "Joe Blow", as I can't afford an EV. Looks as though I'll have to avoid an accident with one at all costs.

 

[MariaG]

OK, so when do I get a H sticker for Hybrid. Maybe I should cut the top and bottom off the E and permanent marker the right hand side.
If this is something that should go on number plates, then if one buys a new EV, wouldn't it make sense for the selling dealer to put the E tag on the plate as a matter of legality, or, is that too simplistic?

 

[Ezzy]

Another expense for an already over expensive car, it should be on the car before you buy it.

I didn't read anything in the article about the client paying for these stickers, unless l misread the article.

 

[Ezzy]

OK, so when do I get a H sticker for Hybrid. Maybe I should cut the top and bottom off the E and permanent marker the right hand side.
If this is something that should go on number plates, then if one buys a new EV, wouldn't it make sense for the selling dealer to put the E tag on the plate as a matter of legality, or, is that too simplistic?

When a vehicle is registered at the transport authority EV or HYBRID would be noted on the Licence papers therefore why wouldn't these stickers be issued with the plates?

 

[MariaG]

When a vehicle is registered at the transport authority EV or HYBRID would be noted on the Licence papers therefore why wouldn't these stickers be issued with the plates?

Not sure if it's the case now, but back in the day, motor dealers were given a box of plates and issued them to customers with new car sales, as well as instigating the registration.
When we purchased our car, we had to go to the motor transport department to declare ourselves pensioners.
I agree with Ezzy, the E requirement is something that needs to be actioned by the motor transport, or, by the selling dealer who issues the plates for the car. My understanding is that the E on a plate is only a sticker, so we would hope it is not a huge expense.
I will make it my mission in the coming days to go into a transport outlet and ask them these things, 1) Should I have asked the motor dealer for an E sticker when purchasing the car , (2) Is there a different sticker for a Hybrid? and (3) Should the registry have made me aware of the sticker when I went in to update the details? If there one thing I can say about myself with confidence, it is, I am not afraid to ask questions.
It seems, nothing in today's world comes easy.