More drivers have begun to use the electronic toll-collection system since the introduction of subsidies, cheaper devices and plans to cut tollway fees for users.
The system allows drivers with an IC-chip credit card inserted in a special device in their vehicles to drive through ETC toll booths without stopping. The ETC booth monitors read the data automatically and the amount is withdrawn from the driver's bank account later.
Overall sales of ETC systems for the current fiscal year are estimated at 3.5 million units, equal to the total sales since the system was introduced in 2001.