Electronic licence plates are not only the next big thing in vanity, but they also bring a whole array of benefits to the motor owner.
The patented plates, manufactured by Reviver, will not be available in South Africa in the foreseeable future, but at least four US states, including California and Texas, have given them the green light and a nationwide roll-out is in the pipeline.
The plates, which have been in development since 2009, are customisable, trackable and make renewing registrations an easier process using an app. They can be either battery powered or directly wired into your vehicle. In the US, they will set you back $19.95 (approximately R350) a month for a 48-month subscription or $215.40 (approximately R3 800) for a four-year plan.
The cloud-connected vehicle platform can also authorise law-enforcement to disable the vehicle once the owner reports the vehicle stolen.
The plates contain internal components that include a processor that stores vehicle information. It also has speed- and light-detection sensors, and an ignition disrupter that disables ignition when the vehicle is locked. Each of the hardware components is said to be tamper-proof.
The displays are made from e-ink or electronic paper and instead of emitting light, the e-paper display (EPD) reflects light and can be read under direct sunlight.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed strong confidence in South Africa's automotive industry, stating it is making crucial investments to build resilience and lead the transition to green mobility despite mounting global pressures.
South Africa is scrambling to protect its economy after USA’s President Donald Trump signed sweeping tariff measures targeting the country's key exports, potentially putting 100 000 jobs at risk, reported Reuters on 1 August.
Vehicle exports to the US – South Africa’s second-largest trading partner and a key destination for locally manufactured premium models – have plummeted by 82.2% in the first half of the year compared to the first half of 2024.
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A light on my car’s dashboard came on, and instead of fixing the problem, I waited for the bulb to burn out. Crisis solved.
Jarod Kintz
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed strong confidence in South Africa's automotive industry, stating it is making crucial investments to build resilience and lead the transition to green mobility despite mounting global pressures.
South Africa is scrambling to protect its economy after USA’s President Donald Trump signed sweeping tariff measures targeting the country's key exports, potentially putting 100 000 jobs at risk, reported Reuters on 1 August.
Vehicle exports to the US – South Africa’s second-largest trading partner and a key destination for locally manufactured premium models – have plummeted by 82.2% in the first half of the year compared to the first half of 2024.
