Mad Max Scenario - 2008.

http://www.news.com.au/business/story/0,23636,23222647-462,00.html

DESPERATE drivers are roaring off without paying for petrol in a crime
surge
costing service stations up to $300,000 a week.
..
..
In response, BP is looking to roll out automatic number-plate recognition
cameras to black-list vehicles involved in thefts.

ANPR cameras were first installed in Melbourne in 2005.

Mobil is also testing the systems at three of its stations, following
anti-theft successes in Britain, where almost all stations have the
equipment.

The ANPR cameras record vehicle number plates at station entrances, and
alert staff if the vehicle has been involved in a drive-off or petrol
theft.

If an alarm within the station operator's booth sounds, the operator can
decline to activate the bowser and ask the driver about the previous
theft;
ask the driver to pay before fuel is supplied; or phone the police.