ILUVROCK, BOND007 or even LIMTUATOW - these may be some of the special number plates on cars here, perhaps later this year.

Also called personalised or vanity plates, they are a common sight in many countries, including the US, Britain, Australia and Denmark.

They could hit Singapore's streets as soon as this year, sources told The Straits Times.

The Land Transport Authority said it is still working on details and has not decided on the implementation date.

'This came out of the blue and seems to be in line with the loosening of rules here,' an observer said.

In the meantime, said the LTA, it has been working with the motor trade industry and others to make changes to its systems to allow the use of personalised numbers on vehicles.

As in other countries where they are allowed, such plates are likely to cost quite a bit.

In Hongkong, tycoon Albert Yeung paid HK$13 million (S$2.5 million) for a simple '9', which in Cantonese connotes longevity. Other popular plates there include HANDSOME, K1NG and 1 LOVE U.

The Straits Times understands the LTA is studying various pricing options, but a flat fee is more likely than an auction system.

Various agencies such as the Housing Board, the Urban Redevelopment Authority and the Association of Hire Purchase are being informed of the plan.

'Apparently, the computer system needs to be upgraded to accommodate the changes,' said a spokesman for the Singapore Vehicle Traders Association.

The new number plate may take up to 12 characters - compared with the maximum eight now.

Motorists and dealers welcome the move.

Mr Glenn Tan, chief executive of Subaru agent MotorImage, said: 'It is a great idea. When I was studying in the States, I had a personalised number, TCH18. TCH are the initials for my Chinese name, Tan Chun Hong.'

Plates with offensive or sensitive messages are unlikely to be allowed. Five years ago, the LTA banned vowels in number plates in what was seen as a pre-emptive move to prevent SEX on Singapore's roads.