Luck tough for would-be car buyers

China News Service reported that those who want to purchase green vehicles might find it easier to get a license plate.

According to the report, the government might introduce a different lottery system for such vehicles but due to a relatively smaller market, there will be little difficulty as long as those who register are qualified.

Though the details will not be known until the city's transport commission releases the 2014 plan for small passenger vehicles in late November, one thing for sure is that some green car models have been available for individuals, it reported.

Those who are qualified for the license plate lottery system can purchase the BAIC's E150EV electric car right away, the reported quoted a BAIC salesman as saying.

But the purchasers will not be allowed to have another license plate for petroleum vehicles.

Biggest concern

Despite the government's efforts to promote green vehicles, many potential buyers are reluctant, with their biggest concern being the travel distance.

"Fully charged electric cars can run about 140 kilometers. It is too short a distance if you drive in such big cities as Beijing," said Cui Lina, a 27-year-old office worker.

"You have to work out a plan where to go and how far the destination is before you start the car.

"Otherwise, you won't be able to return home if the car runs out of electricity."

Cui said another disadvantage of electric cars is they have a lower speed than conventional vehicles and is thus not suitable for the young people.

Also, because they are something new in China, she does not think their quality is as good as petroleum-fueled vehicles.

"It might take me a long time to get a license plate through the lottery system, but I will not consider green cars in the near future," Cui said. Her words are echoed by Zhang Yu, a 32-year-old IT engineer.

"There are few charging stations, and I hear it is expensive to replace the batteries," said Zhang.

China News Service reported that there are 65 charging stations in Beijing, most of which serve buses, taxis and other public vehicles.

The government is planning to build other charging stations in 2014. "I know it is getting an increasingly larger share in the city's license quota.

"It won't be a first option now, but I might try if automakers produce good cars and offer good after-sales service and the government provides enough charging stations," said Zhang.

"After all, who doesn't want to have a breath of fresh air?"