What does the car numbers "cat" mean? - briefly
The term "cat" in car numbers typically refers to a specific category or class of vehicles. This designation is used by various governmental and regulatory bodies to classify vehicles based on their type, size, or use.
What does the car numbers "cat" mean? - in detail
The term "cat" in relation to car numbers, specifically in the format of "CAT," is a designation used in the United Kingdom for certain types of vehicles. This classification is part of the vehicle excise duty (VED) system, which is the UK's tax on vehicles. The "CAT" system categorizes vehicles based on their carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, which is a critical factor in determining the amount of tax a vehicle owner must pay.
Vehicles are assigned a CAT rating from A to M, with each letter representing a different range of CO2 emissions. Lower letters, such as A and B, indicate vehicles with lower emissions and thus attract lower or even zero tax. Conversely, higher letters, such as M, signify vehicles with higher emissions and consequently incur higher tax rates. The CAT system is designed to incentivize the use of more environmentally friendly vehicles by making them more economically attractive to own.
The specific details of the CAT ratings are as follows:
- CAT A: Vehicles that emit 0-100 grams of CO2 per kilometer. These vehicles typically include electric vehicles and some hybrid models.
- CAT B: Vehicles that emit 101-120 grams of CO2 per kilometer. These usually include efficient petrol and diesel vehicles.
- CAT C: Vehicles that emit 121-130 grams of CO2 per kilometer.
- CAT D: Vehicles that emit 131-140 grams of CO2 per kilometer.
- CAT E: Vehicles that emit 141-150 grams of CO2 per kilometer.
- CAT F: Vehicles that emit 151-165 grams of CO2 per kilometer.
- CAT G: Vehicles that emit 166-175 grams of CO2 per kilometer.
- CAT H: Vehicles that emit 176-185 grams of CO2 per kilometer.
- CAT I: Vehicles that emit 186-195 grams of CO2 per kilometer.
- CAT J: Vehicles that emit 196-200 grams of CO2 per kilometer.
- CAT K: Vehicles that emit 201-225 grams of CO2 per kilometer.
- CAT L: Vehicles that emit 226-255 grams of CO2 per kilometer.
- CAT M: Vehicles that emit 255+ grams of CO2 per kilometer.
Understanding a vehicle's CAT rating is essential for drivers in the UK, as it directly affects the cost of owning and operating the vehicle. The CAT system is part of the broader effort by the UK government to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable transportation. By categorizing vehicles based on their environmental impact, the CAT system provides a clear and transparent way for consumers to make informed decisions about the vehicles they choose to purchase and drive.