(a) Upon the application of a person engaged in the manufacturing of automotive equipment, the commissioner may issue interchangeable special number plates for motor vehicles used by the manufacturer in the experimental testing of automotive equipment, provided the application shall contain (1) information on the motor vehicle parts manufactured, (2) a statement on the need for highway testing, (3) an affidavit stating that the special plates shall be used only in experimental testing, and (4) any other information the commissioner deems pertinent.

      (b) The commissioner shall charge an annual fee of twenty dollars for the issuance of registration and plates for any such experimental test motor vehicle. On and after July 1, 1985, the fee shall be thirty dollars, on and after July 1, 1989, forty-five dollars, on and after July 1, 1991, fifty-six dollars, and on and after July 1, 1993, seventy dollars. Such registration shall expire on the last day of March each year.

      (c) No registration and marker plate shall be issued pursuant to this section unless the applicant has furnished financial responsibility satisfactory to the commissioner as defined in section 14-112.