The New York Times reported that a company, Reviver Auto, is testing out digital license plates, in California (of course). The plates will be a digital screen replacing the old-fashioned stamped metal plates. These new plates can display anything, making it easy to switch designs if you want a vanity plate. I can go from A VICKY to a 1931 Alaska plate, to what ever...probably even add emojis!
Amber alerts can be flashed on the plate and if the car is stolen, the plate can change to display that fact.
Because the plates will be GPS connected, advertisers could display ads on the plate when it is parked, even targeting the car if nearby. Who will be first; Snyder's, Bert's, Brattons, probably Macs?
The pilot program has rolled out in Sacramento, with 24 Chevy Bolts, and the state is only allowing a small percentage off the vehicles in the state (now) to use them.
Now the good part: the cost will be $699 plus $99 for the first year and then $75 a year after that to connect. They think the cost will drop by 30% when more advertisers sign on! And, owners will maybe get a rebate or discount for agreeing to promote products. No mention if the cost is on top of the DMV fees. Probably, this is California after all!
Gotta stay connected out here!