What are the differences between China V and China VI emission standards?

[MaggieLee]

The distinction between China V and China VI vehicle emission standards can be identified by the letter designation on the rear of the vehicle: China V is represented by 'V', while China VI is represented by 'VI'. The differences between the two are as follows: Different emission standards: China VI standards are over 30% stricter than China V. Excluding the influence of operating conditions and testing, gasoline vehicles under China VI must reduce carbon monoxide emissions by 50%, total hydrocarbons and non-methane hydrocarbons by 50%, and nitrogen oxide emissions by 42% compared to China V. Different implementation times: The China V standard was implemented nationwide on January 1, 2017, while the China VI standard was implemented on July 1, 2019. Different principles: Under China V, diesel and gasoline vehicles had different emission standards. However, China VI adopts a fuel-neutral principle, meaning the emission limits are the same regardless of the fuel type. Different issuing authorities: The China V standard was issued by the Ministry of Environmental Protection, while the China VI standard was jointly issued by the Ministry of Environmental Protection and the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection, and Quarantine. Different letter designations: China V is represented by 'V', while China VI is represented by 'VI'. Different monitoring requirements for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs): Compared to China V, China VI has enhanced monitoring requirements for PHEVs, including regulations on energy storage systems, thermal management systems, regenerative braking, drive motors, generators, etc. China V standard limits are as follows: Gasoline vehicles must not emit more than 1,000 milligrams of carbon monoxide per kilometer driven. Non-methane hydrocarbon emissions must not exceed 68 milligrams per kilometer. Nitrogen oxide emissions must not exceed 60 milligrams per kilometer. PM (particulate matter) emissions must not exceed 4.5 milligrams per kilometer. China VI has two sub-standards: China VIa and China VIb. Their respective limits are: China VIa standard limits: Gasoline vehicles must not emit more than 700 milligrams of carbon monoxide per kilometer driven. Non-methane hydrocarbon emissions must not exceed 68 milligrams per kilometer. Nitrogen oxide emissions must not exceed 60 milligrams per kilometer. PM emissions must not exceed 4.5 milligrams per kilometer. China VIb standard limits: Gasoline vehicles must not emit more than 500 milligrams of carbon monoxide per kilometer driven. Non-methane hydrocarbon emissions must not exceed 35 milligrams per kilometer. Nitrogen oxide emissions must not exceed 35 milligrams per kilometer. PM emissions must not exceed 3 milligrams per kilometer. Affected by the China VI emission policy, although China V vehicles can still be used normally without restrictions currently, their resale value will be significantly impacted. For truck owners who purchase vehicles on loan for freight transport, the depreciation of the vehicle after paying off the loan is equivalent to the net profit earned during that period. A higher residual value means more profit for the owner. From this perspective, China VI vehicles, with their longer service life and greater road access, offer more advantages.

[StMaverick]

I remember when I first switched to a China VI vehicle, the entire emission system felt much more advanced. Under the China V standard, my old car had high nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions, and I often noticed the pungent smell of exhaust. Now, the China VI limits are much stricter—for example, nitrogen oxides have been reduced from 60mg/km under China V to 35mg/km under China VI, and particulate emissions have also been cut by more than half. Real-world driving tests have also been added, ensuring cleaner emissions even in city traffic jams. The downside is slightly higher maintenance costs due to the particulate filter, which requires regular cleaning. But in the long run, it’s much better for the environment, significantly reducing urban smog. I feel more at ease driving, especially when taking my family out, as the air is fresher. Overall, it’s an upgrade challenge for car owners, but it’s worth it—small investments lead to a better environment.

[LawsonAnn]

I've been concerned about environmental protection for a long time, and the China VI emission standards truly promote green progress. Compared to China V, China VI has nearly halved the limits for hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide. While China V allowed around 0.3g/km, China VIa reduced it to just 0.1g, and Phase b is even stricter. Crucially, it introduced real-time monitoring systems—vehicles must comply the moment they start moving, unlike China V which only applied in laboratory conditions. This significantly reduces urban air pollution sources, especially benefiting asthma sufferers as PM2.5 levels drop. From personal experience, Beijing's smoggy days have decreased slightly. However, car prices saw a modest increase due to technological upgrades, such as more efficient three-way catalytic converters. But considering the social costs, this small price is worth it for clearer skies. I recommend choosing China VI-compliant vehicles to support carbon neutrality goals.