How to distinguish between China IV and China V standards?

[Arthur]

The differences between China IV and China V standards are as follows: 1. Release dates differ: China's Phase IV motor vehicle pollutant emission standards were released on December 30, 2005; China's Phase V motor vehicle pollutant emission standards were released on September 17, 2013. 2. Content varies: China IV vehicle emissions mainly include HC (hydrocarbons), nitrogen (nitrogen oxides), CO (carbon monoxide), and particulate matter (PM); China V standards cover nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and suspended particulate matter. 3. Stringency differs: Compared to China IV, the new standard reduces NOx emissions by 25% for light-duty vehicles and 43% for heavy-duty vehicles. Based on Shanghai's annual vehicle registration of 350,000 units, this is estimated to reduce NOx emissions by approximately 1,000 tons annually. Additionally, China's Phase V emission control levels are equivalent to Europe's currently implemented Euro 5 emission standards.

[FinnDella]

I remember the topic of vehicle emission standards is quite interesting. The main differences between China IV and China V lie in the implementation time and pollutant limits. The China IV standard was introduced around 2011, when many new vehicles had to comply with this requirement, and the control of particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) was decent. Later, the China V standard was enforced nationwide around 2017, tightening emission limits even further—for example, cutting total pollutant emissions by half and reducing harmful substances like PM and NOx. I once drove a China IV-compliant car, and compared to my friend’s China V car, the most noticeable difference was the stricter annual inspection, especially the exhaust emission test. Nowadays, driving a China V car in the city is more hassle-free, with fewer traffic restrictions, which is why many people prioritize China V cars when upgrading. The advancement in standards is for environmental protection, and historically, it has driven technological progress, making vehicles greener. If you’re concerned about a used car, it’s best to check the VIN code to confirm the standard level.

[OBlakely]

As a seasoned driver who frequently works on cars, I believe the most direct difference between China IV and China V standards lies in the vehicle technology itself. China V vehicles generally feature upgrades in the engine and aftertreatment systems, such as more precise oxygen sensors and catalytic converters, which significantly reduce emissions. I recall the mechanic mentioning during a China V vehicle maintenance that pollutant limits are over 50% stricter than China IV, with better control of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. In daily driving, China V vehicles start faster, have slightly better fuel efficiency, and produce less engine noise. The benefits for owners include higher annual inspection pass rates, especially in major cities where China IV vehicles might be required to install additional equipment. Policy-wise, China V was fully implemented in 2017, a few years later than China IV, and the differences can be seen on new vehicle labels. When purchasing, don't just focus on appearance; checking the emission certificate is the most reliable way to distinguish, helping us drive more environmentally friendly.

[SanZoe]

In my opinion, the classification of China IV and China V is primarily determined by policies and emission values. The China V standard requires lower levels of pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, and it was implemented later than China IV. When driving a China V vehicle, it's easier to get licensed, and there are no traffic restrictions in major cities.