
China 5 and China 6 are automobile exhaust emission standards, which regulate the content of harmful gases such as carbon monoxide, PM, and soot emitted from vehicle exhaust. The higher the number, the later the standard was issued, and the stricter the energy-saving and emission reduction requirements for vehicles. The changes from China 5 to China 6 include improvements in intake and exhaust efficiency, exhaust gas recirculation efficiency, etc., with the aim of reducing the levels of harmful gases. The China 6 emission standard is an upgraded version of the current China 5 standard, imposing more stringent limits on the emission of carbon monoxide, total hydrocarbons, non-methane hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter mass compared to the China 5 standard. Additionally, it introduces new regulations on the number of particulate matter emissions.

Recently, I've been quite interested in vehicle emissions. Talking about China V and China VI, these are actually the standard levels set by China for new vehicle exhaust pollution. China V is the abbreviation for the fifth stage, implemented since 2017, which limits the emissions of harmful substances like nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide, requiring vehicles to be equipped with basic purifiers. China VI is the sixth stage, divided into two versions, a and b, with b being stricter. For example, it reduces the limit for particulate matter by almost half, and many major cities have enforced it after 2020. This means China VI vehicles must use more advanced exhaust treatment technologies, possibly adding something like a particulate filter, resulting in stronger purification effects and naturally better air quality. However, at the same time, vehicle manufacturing costs have risen, and we need to choose China VI-compliant new cars to avoid traffic restrictions. In the long run, environmental protection is indeed important, but I think the government should provide more subsidies to reduce the burden on the public, especially in cities with heavy smog.

As an ordinary person who frequently drives, it's important to clearly distinguish between National 5 (China V) and National 6 (China VI) when buying a car. Simply put, National 5 is the older standard with weaker emission controls, and the price might be lower. National 6 is the newer, stricter standard, and new cars must comply to be registered. If you're in emission-restricted areas like Beijing or Shanghai, choosing a National 6 car is a must to avoid fines or driving restrictions. However, when buying used, a National 5 car might offer better value for money, especially in smaller areas without driving restrictions. The downside is that National 6 cars require higher-grade gasoline and more expensive parts for maintenance, and the vehicle inspection process can be more troublesome. In short, it's most practical to choose a car based on your city's policies. Don't just go for the cheaper National 5 option, as it may depreciate faster. Also, paying attention to air quality improvements during daily drives is a good thing.

Talking about automotive standards, China 5 and China 6 are emission regulation codes, with China 6 being more stringent than China 5. For example, the nitrogen oxide limit was significantly reduced in China 6a, and China 6b is even stricter with additional new pollutant tests. This forces automakers to upgrade engines or install exhaust purifiers, such as enhanced catalytic converters. For consumers choosing a car, China 6 vehicles typically represent new technology and eco-friendly designs, which can help reduce urban smog. When buying a new car, it's safer to prioritize China 6 models.

When driving my old car, I noticed the differences between China 5 and China 6 standards in terms of fuel costs and maintenance. China 6 vehicles require cleaner fuels such as gasoline with an octane rating of 95 or higher, making refueling more challenging in areas with poor fuel quality. Emission tests during vehicle inspections are also more frequent and stringent. China 5 vehicles can still run in suburban areas, but their resale value has dropped significantly. In terms of pollution control, these standards promote cleaner air but come with slightly higher repair costs. It's advisable to check the availability of suitable fuel and service shops in your area before deciding which vehicle to use.


