Since 1955, beginning with the Giulietta Spider, Alfa Romeo has featured offset number plates. This design element highlighted the iconic 'scudetto' grille on current models like the Giulia, Tonale, and Stelvio. Now, this long-standing tradition will make way for a new look in response to regulatory demands.
Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos, Alfa Romeo's design chief, confirmed the shift in an interview to Autocar. He stated that future electric versions of the Giulia and Stelvio, along with other new models on the STLA Large electric platform, will feature centrally-mounted plates.
The new design aligns with the EU’s General Safety Regulations aimed at enhancing pedestrian protection. This includes updated requirements for car front designs to minimize injury risks during collisions.
"We cannot put the number plate on the side anymore because of the homologation regulations for pedestrian [safety]. This will allow us to have symmetry anyway, so I am happy - I’m one of the guys who likes the plate in the middle," said Mesonero-Romanos.
A centrally mounted plate is also used in the recently launched Alfa Romeo Junior crossover (photo below).
Consumers can expect to see these changes roll out with next year's launch of the next-generation Stelvio and a new Giulia slated for 2026. These models will be built on Alfa Romeo's STLA Large electric platform, marking a significant step toward modernizing its fleet under strict safety guidelines.
Source: Autocar
