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China has taken a significant step in enhancing electric vehicle (EV) safety by mandating that power batteries must not catch fire or explode. This new requirement is part of a broader effort to finalize 294 national standards across 13 key sectors, as announced by the State Administration for Market Regulation on December 26, and reported by CCTV. The standards, now approved and published, are set to take effect under an action plan jointly released by seven government departments.
The announcement marks a pivotal moment in China’s regulatory landscape, particularly for the EV industry, which has been under scrutiny for safety concerns. The newly mandated standards are part of the Action Plan to Promote Equipment Renewal and Consumer Goods Trade-In Through Standards. This initiative aims to guide industrial upgrading and consumption renewal through a comprehensive framework of regulatory standardization.
Focus on Energy Efficiency and Emissions
Among the newly established standards, a significant portion addresses energy efficiency and emissions. Authorities have revised national standards for industries such as coal-fired power generation, steel, and building materials. A total of 113 standards have been approved, including mandatory energy consumption limits designed to phase out outdated production capacities. These standards also impose stricter efficiency requirements on industrial equipment like boilers, electric motors, and transformers.
This development follows China’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainable industrial practices. By tightening these regulations, the government aims to push industries towards more environmentally friendly operations, aligning with global trends in energy conservation and emissions reduction.
Breakthrough in EV Battery Safety
The most notable change within the consumer sector is the revision of electric vehicle power battery safety standards. For the first time, these standards explicitly require that batteries must not catch fire or explode, elevating them to mandatory technical requirements at the national level. Liu Hongsheng, director of the Standards Technology Department at the State Administration for Market Regulation, described this as a breakthrough in safety regulation.
“The mandate will require automakers to optimize battery structures and thermal management systems to improve the overall safety of new energy vehicles,” Liu stated.
According to a summary from the Guangdong Electric Vehicle Standards Testing Laboratory (GDESTL), the revised national standard GB 38031-2025 is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2026. New type approvals will adhere to these updated requirements, while vehicles already approved under previous standards will follow a phased transition, extending to July 1, 2027.
Expanding Standards for Recycling and Circular Economy
In addition to safety and efficiency, China has approved 66 national standards focused on resource recycling and circular utilization. These standards encompass various stages of recycling, dismantling, and regeneration of used products, including home appliances, furniture, electronic devices, photovoltaic equipment, wind power equipment, and power batteries.
This move represents China’s strategic shift towards a circular economy, reducing waste and promoting sustainable resource use. By establishing clear guidelines for recycling and reuse, the government aims to minimize environmental impact and encourage the development of a more sustainable industrial ecosystem.
Implications and Future Outlook
The comprehensive overhaul of national standards in China underscores the country’s commitment to safety, efficiency, and sustainability. The new regulations are expected to drive innovation and competitiveness within key industries, particularly in the rapidly growing EV sector. Automakers will need to invest in research and development to meet the stringent safety requirements, potentially leading to advancements in battery technology and vehicle design.
Meanwhile, the emphasis on energy efficiency and emissions aligns with China’s broader environmental goals, supporting its pledge to peak carbon emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. The recycling and circular economy standards further reinforce this commitment, highlighting the government’s proactive approach to environmental stewardship.
As these standards take effect, industries will face both challenges and opportunities. Companies that adapt swiftly to the new regulations may gain a competitive edge, while those that lag behind could struggle to comply with the evolving regulatory landscape. The move towards stricter standards reflects China’s strategic vision for a safer, more sustainable future, setting a precedent for other nations to follow.
