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.
Dunlop Tyres South Africa has completed a R1.7 billion investment programme at its uMnambithi (Ladysmith) manufacturing facility, introducing new manufacturing technology and expanding production capabilities at the plant.
Mahindra & Mahindra has unveiled the Scorpio Lifestyler, a midsize lifestyle bakkie derived from the Global Pik Up concept first shown in Cape Town in 2023.
The South African automotive industry has gained some breathing space following the latest move by the United States Senate to extend the African Growth and Opportunity Act, or AGOA, to the end of 2028.
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I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
Dunlop Tyres South Africa has completed a R1.7 billion investment programme at its uMnambithi (Ladysmith) manufacturing facility, introducing new manufacturing technology and expanding production capabilities at the plant.
The South African automotive industry has gained some breathing space following the latest move by the United States Senate to extend the African Growth and Opportunity Act, or AGOA, to the end of 2028.
General Motors (GM) has renewed its joint venture with China's SAIC Motor Corp for another 20 years, enabling the United States (US) automaker to use China as an export hub amid rising competition from Chinese brands in and outside their home market.
