VicRoads has introduced Australia’s first licence plate set specifically designed to fit Chinese-manufactured vehicles, responding to the rapid growth of these models across passenger and fleet markets.
The new plate configuration combines a standard-size front plate with a custom rear plate aligned to Chinese mounting points, eliminating the need for brackets or drilling modifications during vehicle fit-out and delivery.
For Fleet Managers and procurement teams managing mixed vehicle brands, the change is a small but practical development that reflects the increasing presence of Chinese-manufactured vehicles—particularly electric and hybrid models—within Australian fleets.
Designed to address a practical fleet issue
The licence plate set includes a standard front plate measuring 372 x 132 mm and a custom rear plate measuring 305 x 155 mm. The revised rear plate matches the mounting points commonly used on Chinese vehicles while maintaining sensor clearance at the front of the vehicle.
This removes a common installation challenge for dealerships, fleet upfitters and workshop teams, particularly when vehicles are delivered in volume or prepared for operational service.
Giles Thompson, Chief Executive Officer, VicRoads Registration and Licensing Services, said the change was driven by customer demand as Chinese vehicle sales continue to grow.
“Sales of Chinese manufactured vehicles — especially EVs and hybrids — are surging in Victoria, and drivers simply want plates that fit,” said Thompson.
“Dealers and owners have been asking for a proper solution — this delivers it.”
Reflecting the rise of Chinese vehicle brands
Chinese-manufactured vehicles now represent a significant and growing share of the Australian market, driven largely by competitive pricing, expanding model ranges and strong growth in electrified vehicles.
According to VicRoads data, registrations of electric vehicles increased from 71,903 in January 2025 to 105,280 in January 2026, highlighting the pace of adoption.
Chinese brands accounted for 17.5% of new vehicle registrations in Victoria between January and October 2025, up from 11.3% during the same period in 2024.
Brands expected to benefit from the new plate design include GWM, Chery, Haval and Jaecoo, many of which are actively targeting fleet and novated leasing channels with new electric and hybrid models.
Implications for fleet operations
While the introduction of a new licence plate format may appear minor, it highlights a broader operational trend: fleet composition is changing quickly, and supporting processes need to evolve alongside vehicle technology.
For organisations building fleet decarbonisation plans or updating procurement strategies, there are several practical considerations:
1. Vehicle diversity is increasing
Fleet teams are managing a wider mix of vehicle origins, specifications and compliance requirements than ever before.
2. Small operational details affect efficiency
Installation, compliance and delivery processes can create hidden costs or delays when vehicles require modifications or non-standard components.
3. Fleet management maturity supports smoother transitions
Organisations with documented specifications, supplier standards and fit-out procedures are better positioned to integrate new vehicle types without disruption.
As fleets continue to adopt electric and hybrid vehicles from a broader range of manufacturers, operational readiness—including compliance, vehicle preparation and supplier coordination—will remain just as important as the vehicle selection itself.
Availability
The new Chinese-vehicle licence plate sets are available through selected dealerships representing Chinese brands and at VicRoads Customer Service Centres, priced at $175 per pair. They are not currently available online.
