Number Plates News

Interesting Developments in Asian Plate Market

23 March 2010

A mystery buyer has smashed the previous record for a number plate purchase in Malaysia. The price was about £44k for the registration TAY 1. Six potential purchasers submitted tenders in a process which differs significantly from the more usual public auction. Also sold via sealed bids were TAY 8 [£12k] and TAX 1 [£33k].

Up until now, the most expensive Malaysian plate was TAN 1. which sold for the equivalent of £35k in November 2009

Meanwhile, proposed legislation is certain to provide a massive boost to the personal registration market in India. At present, whilst there is a scrabble for desirable new plates, they will go with the car if it is sold and will be lost altogether when the vehicle is finally scrapped.

Understandably, many people grow attached to their old plates, particularly if they hold some personal or numerical significance. So, under new arrangements just issued by the Surface Transport Ministry, you will be able to retain your registration indefinitely so it can be transferred to successive vehicles.

This, of course, opens the door to the possibility of private sales between individuals in exactly the same way as we are accustomed to in this country and most other parts of the world.

Approval of the new system appears to be universal and some high-profile individuals were quick to endorse the plans. Popular singer, Shibani Kashyap enthused, "You are used to seeing the same number on your car. It is also part of your identity, so it is a wonderful idea,"

Related stories