Shawneels Automotive

Personalised number plates are big business, but they’re also an issue that many people are divided on. Some people love them, others hate them. One thing is certain though, customised registration plates will definitely make an impression
Stars love custom number plates
The rich and famous seem to love their personalised registration plates. David Beckham has one, as does Cristiano Ronaldo. It’s not just footballers either; the boxer Amir Khan has “BOX111G”, and the musician Vanessa Mae invested in W8 MAE. Popular English magician Paul Daniels owns the number plate MAG 1C, and Jimmy Tarbuck has made sure nobody will forget he’s a comic, by buying the number plate COM 1C.
Avoiding tacky number plates
It makes sense for a star to have a plate that reflects the sport or activity that made them famous. Most people buying number plates, however, have different motivations. If you want to make sure that you create a positive impression with your number plate, try the following tips:
1. Stick to something simple: Your name is a great idea. If you get your name on a plate, it will come with you from car to car, even if your interests change. In addition, everyone will know which car is yours in a crowded parking lot!
2. Avoid pop culture references: Buying a plate that spells POTT3R today might seem like a great idea, but in ten years’ time people might think “pottery” rather than “Hogwarts” when they see it.
3. Pick Something You’d Drive to an Interview: References to drugs or adult entertainment might seem funny while you’re browsing the listings over a beer, but would you be willing to pull up to a job interview in a car with a plate like that?
4. Soppy will wear off: Don’t opt for the name of your girlfriend, at least not unless you’re buying a set of number plates for their car! Going through the paperwork to change the plates after a breakup won’t be fun.
5. Take care with humour: Remember that you share the road with a lot of other drivers. If you’re considering a funny plate, make sure that it’s a harmless joke. The last thing you want is for the driver behind you to take offense.
Custom number plates are a great way to add a finishing touch to the customisation of your car. If you take pride in the vehicle you drive, then some stylish custom plates – with your name, your profession, or a tribute to a respected person, are a great investment. If you can manage to obtain a plate that ends up becoming a modern classic – similar to CEO 1 and VIP 1, which both fetched six figure prices last time they were auctioned – then you’ll be sitting on a great investment. Even if the plate has value only in your mind, it’s still something that will make you smile every time you go to get into your car, and at the end of the day that’s all that matters!