Chinese media exposes illicit electric motorcycle network using fake license plates

Chinese tech outlet IT Home has reported on the exposure of a widespread illegal network involved in the sale and use of electric motorcycles disguised as electric bicycles. The operation centers on the manufacturing and distribution of counterfeit license plates, enabling owners of more powerful electric motorcycles to circumvent regulations.

The issue has become prominent on the streets of Beijing, where electric motorcycles capable of speeds up to 80 km/h are being ridden with white license plates meant for electric bicycles. These vehicles can be distinguished from legitimate electric bicycles by their larger size, weight, and technical specifications, which often exceed the 48-volt and 400-watt limits set for e-bikes. Their frame numbers are also longer and alphanumeric, unlike the purely numeric IDs on e-bikes.

Authorities state that many offenders lack the required motorcycle licenses or have failed to register their vehicles properly. They often claim ignorance, citing information provided by sellers about the vehicles being e-bikes, while using the falsified plates. This has led to a crackdown in Beijing, with traffic police confiscating 254 such vehicles and detaining 24 riders since June.

Investigations revealed an integrated criminal chain responsible for producing and selling these fake plates online. The plates are sold for the equivalent of a few US dollars each, with customization options available, while manufacturing costs are less than a dollar per plate. The scheme uses online platforms to attract buyers, often directing them to private, off-platform transactions to avoid detection. The use of fake plates significantly undermines traffic safety, facilitates illegal activities, complicates investigations, and aids in the resale of stolen vehicles.

During a coordinated operation, police arrested 20 suspects, seized over 8,000 counterfeit or semi-finished license plates, and dismantled a network operating across seven Chinese provinces. Authorities have imposed fines and penalties, including administrative detention, on drivers using the fake plates. Over 80 individuals have been punished for using counterfeit plates or for operating without the proper licensing.