When a starts with the letter Q, it means that the car is either a ‘kit car’ or has undergone radical modifications. Drivers of cars with may need to look for specialist car insurance cover.
A Q plate is a car registration plate that is issued in the UK when the age or origin of a vehicle cannot be easily determined. It is often used for vehicles that have been extensively modified or imported from abroad. The letter "Q" stands for "Query" and is followed by a unique combination of numbers and letters.
UK drivers may come across Q plates if they own a vehicle that has been significantly altered, such as a custom-built car or a kit car. In these cases, it can be challenging to assign a specific year of manufacture or determine the vehicle's origin. As a result, the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) issues a Q plate to signify this uncertainty.
It's important to note that Q plates are not typically given to brand new vehicles or those with a clear history. Instead, they are reserved for vehicles that cannot be easily classified or assigned a standard registration plate. This helps ensure that all vehicles on the road are properly registered and identifiable.
As a UK driver, if you come across a vehicle with a Q plate, it indicates that the car has an unusual history or has undergone significant modifications. It's always a good idea to exercise caution and be aware of any potential differences in performance or handling that may arise from such alterations.