What do China 5 and China 6 mean in vehicles?
2 Answers
China 6 emission standards are an upgraded version of China 5 emission standards, imposing stricter limits on the emissions of CO (carbon monoxide), THC (total hydrocarbons), NMHC (non-methane hydrocarbons), NOX (nitrogen oxides), PM (particulate matter mass), and introducing regulations for PN (particulate matter number). Here are a few ways to distinguish between China 5 and China 6 vehicles: 1. The China 5 emission standard is marked with a "V", while the China 6 emission standard is marked with a "Ⅵ", using Roman numerals. 2. The vehicle's nameplate indicates the model number.
As an ordinary citizen, I’m quite concerned about China 5 and China 6. Essentially, these are vehicle emission standards set by the Chinese government. China 5 refers to the fifth-stage national standard, implemented around 2017, while China 6 is the sixth-stage standard, gradually rolled out in 2019. The core purpose is to control tailpipe pollution and reduce harmful emissions like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. I recall that China 5 was significantly stricter than previous standards, and China 6 goes even further, slashing pollutant emission limits to much lower levels. Many cities, such as Beijing and Shanghai, now mandate that only China 6-compliant vehicles can be registered, aiming to improve air quality. Back when smoggy days were frequent, the post-implementation effect is noticeable—more blue skies now. The government’s move is clearly for environmental and public health benefits. However, for drivers, these upgrades mean automakers must adapt by adding new technologies like particulate filters, which might slightly increase vehicle costs. But in the long run, fuel savings are achievable. Overall, it’s a positive step—driving technological progress and helping everyone breathe cleaner air. I’d suggest prioritizing China 6-compliant models when buying a car.
