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The Bengaluru Central RTO witnessed intense bidding on Monday as premium vehicle registration numbers under the KA-01-NJ series went under the hammer, with the coveted '0001' plate emerging as the clear standout. 

According to officials, the '0001' registration number fetched a staggering ₹22.10 lakh, reflecting the continued demand for exclusive and status-symbol vehicle identifiers in India's tech capital.

The auction, held at the RTO office, drew participation from automobile enthusiasts, high-net-worth individuals, and businesses keen on securingdistinctive number plates for branding and prestige. MP Omkareshwari Additional Commissioner for Transport (Enforcement) (South) oversaw the auction and Chandrakanth was the auctioneer, ensuring a smooth process.

Other high-value numbers also saw competitive bids:

• '7' fetched ₹8.87 lakh

• '9999' went for ₹8 lakh

• '7777' secured ₹5 lakh

• '1111' and '6666' each fetched ₹3.5 lakh

Mid-range premium numbers also attracted strong interest:

• '9' sold for ₹2.30 lakh

• '333' fetched ₹1.95 lakh

• '999' went for ₹1.80 lakh

• '8055' secured ₹1.30 lakh

Industry observers note that single-digit and repetitive-number plates continue to command a premium due to their perceived auspicious value and rarity. Numbers such as '0001' and '7' are particularly sought after, often associated with power, luck, and exclusivity.

Bengaluru has consistently ranked among the top cities for high-value registration auctions, driven by its affluent population and thriving luxury vehicle market. The KA-01 series, historically linked to central Bengaluru, remains one of the most desirable registrations in Karnataka.

Officials indicated that proceeds from such auctions contribute to government revenues, while also offering buyers a legal avenue to acquire personalized registration numbers.

The latest auction once again underscores the growing appetite for vanity numbers, turning what was once a functional identifier into a high-value asset and status symbol on Indian roads.