How long can China III emission vehicles still be driven?
3 Answers
China III vehicles can be driven until 2023. On July 1, 2023, the China VI B standard will be implemented nationwide for all vehicles. The introduction of China III and China VI standards is as follows: Introduction to China III Standard: The China III standard was implemented nationwide on July 1, 2007. To reduce pollutant emissions, China III vehicles have undergone technical upgrades and modifications to the engine and exhaust system, including the addition of a vehicle self-diagnosis system and upgrades to the three-way catalytic converter. Compared to China II, the total pollutant emissions of China III vehicles are reduced by 40%. Introduction to China VI Standard: The China VI gasoline and diesel standards focus on reducing the content of olefins, aromatics, benzene, etc., in vehicle gasoline; reducing the content of polycyclic aromatics in vehicle diesel indicators, and adding quantitative requirements for total pollutant content. The indicators fully meet the current EU standards for vehicle fuel quality, with some indicators even exceeding EU standards. Data shows that compared to China V standard gasoline/diesel, China VI fuel reduces carbon monoxide emissions by 50%, total hydrocarbon and non-methane hydrocarbon emission limits by 50%, and nitrogen oxide emissions by 42%.
I used to drive a China III vehicle, but now I feel that such vehicles won't be drivable for much longer. The main reason is the severe environmental pollution issue. Older vehicles with China III emission standards have high pollutant levels, and major cities like Beijing and Shanghai have already banned them from entering urban areas, with restricted zones continuously expanding. If owners insist on driving them, they may face fines or have their vehicles impounded. From my daily observations, the exhaust from China III vehicles affects air quality, leading to frequent smog and health threats. Supporting national policies to phase out old vehicles is a good thing, and I recommend switching to environmentally friendly models as soon as possible to avoid being too passive. Overall, in big cities, the remaining drivable time might be one or two years, while smaller areas are more lenient but still won't last more than five or six years. For the sake of yourself and the environment, don't delay too long. Remember to regularly check the emission system and avoid driving on restricted days to avoid trouble.
Buying a National III standard car may seem cheap and cost-effective, but it's not economical in the long run. From an economic perspective, the prices of National III standard cars in the used car market have plummeted. You might buy one and drive it for only two years before it's scrapped or restricted, at which point it won't be worth much when reselling. The maintenance costs are high, especially for the outdated exhaust system which requires frequent repairs. It might be better to switch to a new car that saves fuel and money. A friend in a small town still drives one, but entering city centers risks fines, and insurance costs are rising. How long a National III standard car can be driven depends on regional policies—it might last three to five years in suburban areas, but big cities will ban them soon. Consider new car subsidies or electrification options to avoid losses and delays. Don’t just look at the cheap price; calculate the long-term maintenance and risks—it’s really not worth it.
