How Long Can Shanghai National IV Emission Vehicles Continue to Be Driven?
3 Answers
Shanghai National IV vehicles can continue to be driven as long as they are in good condition. Below is an introduction to National IV standards: 1. Introduction: The National IV emission standard is China's fourth-stage motor vehicle pollutant emission standard. The main pollutants emitted by vehicles include HC (hydrocarbons), NOx (nitrogen oxides), CO (carbon monoxide), and PM (particulate matter). 2. Basics: China's vehicle emission standards have been upgraded annually: On July 1, 2004, the National II emission standard was implemented nationwide. 3. Issues: During the 2010 'Two Sessions,' Chen Hong from SAIC mentioned in a proposal: 'The phenomenon of fuel quality consistently lagging behind vehicle emission standards has persisted in China for many years, with fuel that meets emission requirements not being supplied to the market in sync.'
Currently, driving a China IV emission standard vehicle in Shanghai is not a big issue, but the traffic restriction policies have become stricter. It's said that it might last until around 2025, as the government is promoting China VI emission standards and electric vehicles for environmental protection, gradually banning older vehicles from the city center. My China IV vehicle is still usable, but I often get fined when entering or exiting the inner ring road, forcing me to take detours. It's advisable to keep an eye on official announcements and not wait until the vehicle suddenly becomes unusable to panic. Shanghai's air quality management is stringent, and restrictions will likely become more lenient in the coming years. If you usually drive in the suburbs, it's fine, but check the map before entering the city to avoid unnecessary trips. In the long run, by 2030, there might be a complete phase-out, so it's better to consider switching to a new energy vehicle sooner—it's more comfortable and hassle-free. Regular maintenance checks can also help avoid major issues.
As a regular car owner who has been driving in Shanghai for a long time, I think National IV emission standard vehicles can still be driven for quite some time. The current policies are not too strict, with 2025 being a key milestone. I drive to work every week, and the expanded restricted zones have added some inconvenience, but it's not a big deal—just avoid peak hours. My car is ten years old, with affordable maintenance and decent fuel consumption. The cost of replacing it is too high and not worth it. The government always talks about reducing pollution, but in practice, changes will be gradual. I reckon we can manage until around 2030. Don’t believe rumors; regularly check the local traffic app for the latest restricted zone rules. Safety comes first when driving—don’t panic over policies, and stay calm to adapt to changes.
