California weighs 'digital adverts' on number plates (BBC)

[eppur_se_muova]

California is weighing whether to allow advert-broadcasting digital number plates on vehicles, in a bid to raise revenue for the cash-strapped state.

Drivers could select messages to display and could earn rewards from advertisers that pay the state.

The state senate is considering a bill to allow research into the move.

At least one firm, in San Francisco, is developing an electronic number plate that would scroll adverts while a car is stopped at lights and in congestion.
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more: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/world/us_and_canada/10368899.stm




Ah, paid advertising -- the solution to all of society's problems. :eyes: One could hardly imagine a better use of the technology involved.

[Maru Kitteh]

1. How long before "barely legal" ads popped up? How long before the plates were hacked?

This could be amusing.

[eppur_se_muova]

2. It could be handy as well as amusing ...

"IF YOU CAN READ THIS YOU'RE DRIVING TOO F***ING CLOSE"

[Maru Kitteh]

6. Yes! I like it!

[David in Canada]

3. Coming Soon!

Coming soon to a licence plate near you: "The State of California. Brought to you by Brawndo. It's got electrolytes!"

[pepperbear]

4. What happens when the license plate advertises something to which the driver objects? n/t

[Socal31]

5. Once government electronics are on vehicles, how long until a cheap

GPS chip is on as well?

Thumbs down.