This month we take a look at some of the important news stories coming out of the Private Number Plate industry to give you an insight into new changes and important new Number Plate releases.
What to look out for with your new 2024 Number Plate
With the recent release of the March 2024 number plates across the UK, many car owners are rushing out to purchase their favourite plates with the new 24 mark on them. However, there are a number of factors worth considering before purchasing and assigning your plates to your vehicle to ensure you're not left in hot water.
Ensuring your license plates (both front and rear) are clearly visible is crucial. Avoid any decorative elements that might obscure them and keep them free from dirt and debris for optimal readability. It's essential to address any issues with faulty bulbs before driving in low-light conditions to maintain visibility.
Moreover, it's illegal to misrepresent the age of your vehicle by affixing plates that suggest a younger model year. For instance, attempting to use a "24" plate on a 2003 Vauxhall Astra is prohibited and unlikely to deceive anyone. The DVLA permits certain national flags, such as the Union flag, Cross of St George, and Red Dragon of Wales, to be displayed on registration plates. Additionally, electric vehicles (EVs) can feature a green strip, denoting zero emissions, provided they are officially registered as such.
Stringent regulations also govern the spacing and size of characters on license plates. According to Gov UK, characters must be 79mm tall, with a width of 50mm for all except the letter "I." The stroke, or thickness, of characters should measure 14mm, and there must be an 11mm gap between each character to comply with standards. Stick to these rules and your new 2024 plate will remain road legal and looking great.
Ferrari to Auction off 25 unique plates
In an upcoming auction slated for May of this year, luxury car manufacturer Ferrari is set to auction off 25 private registration numbers previously assigned to its press cars. These distinctive numbers have graced Ferrari vehicles in various press and promotional images over the years. The auction will offer bidding opportunities both on-site and remotely via telephone and online platforms. Auctioneer estimates place the guide prices for these registration numbers between £500 and £3,000.
Organized by Iconic Auctioneers, the event is scheduled to coincide with SupercarFest at Sywell Park in Northamptonshire on Saturday, May 18, 2024. The proceeds from this auction will be directed to the automotive industry charity Ben, which provides support to individuals who have been part of the automotive industry.
Many of the registration numbers up for auction hold significance, referencing specific Ferrari models or notable features like engine types. Below, we've provided a list of the lots along with explanatory notes highlighting their connections to the respective cars on which they were originally displayed.
Beware the Rise of Number Plate Cloning
In recent years, a concerning trend has been on the rise: number plate cloning. This illegal practice involves replicating legitimate license plates to conceal the true identity of a vehicle, often for nefarious purposes. As technology advances, so too do the methods used by criminals to deceive authorities and innocent motorists alike and sources such as fleet new state that there has been a 631% increase in cloning of plates over the past few years.
Number plate cloning poses significant risks to road safety and law enforcement efforts. With cloned plates, offenders can evade detection for various offenses, including speeding, toll evasion, and even more serious crimes like theft and fraud. Moreover, innocent drivers whose plates have been cloned may find themselves wrongfully implicated in criminal activities, facing legal troubles and potential damage to their reputations.
Law enforcement agencies are ramping up efforts to combat this growing problem, utilizing advanced technology and surveillance techniques to identify and apprehend offenders. Penalties for those caught with cloned number plates can be severe and vary depending on the jurisdiction and circumstances of the offence.
In the United Kingdom, for example, penalties for number plate cloning can include hefty fines, points on your license, and even imprisonment in serious cases. Offenders may also face charges for related offences, such as driving without insurance or using a vehicle with false identification marks.
To avoid falling victim to number plate cloning or inadvertently engaging in this illegal activity, motorists are advised to take precautions. Regularly inspect your vehicle's license plates for signs of tampering or duplication. If you suspect that your plates have been cloned, report the incident to law enforcement immediately.
Additionally, when purchasing a vehicle, be vigilant about verifying its history and ensuring that the registration documents match the physical characteristics of the car. Finally, adhere to all traffic laws and regulations, as engaging in unlawful activities on the road can not only endanger lives but also result in severe legal consequences.