
VI refers to the China VI emission standard. The China VI fuel standard can reduce particulate emissions by up to 10%, significantly lowering the pollutant content in vehicle exhaust. Under the China VI standard, the upper limit of aromatic hydrocarbon content in ethanol gasoline for vehicles is reduced by 12.5%, olefin content by 25%, and benzene content by 20%. After upgrading from China V to China VI, the environmental and performance characteristics of gasoline and diesel for vehicles are further improved, effectively reducing engine carbon deposits and extending engine lifespan. Currently, vehicles that meet the China VI emission standard include the X-Trail, all-new Sylphy, Tiguan L, XT4, Highlander, Camry, new Lavida, Roewe RX5, and Acura CDX hybrid version, among others.

When I used to repair cars, people often asked me about emission standards. The VI you mentioned is actually the Roman numeral 6, representing China's National VI emission standard. This is currently the latest domestic standard, much stricter than the previous National V, mainly targeting nitrogen oxides and particulate matter from vehicle emissions. I remember it was gradually implemented starting in 2019, divided into two phases: National VI a and National VI b. Now most new cars must meet this standard. Driving a National VI car in big cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou is more convenient as it's not affected by traffic restrictions. However, be careful - if your car is National V, installing performance-enhancing modifications can easily damage the catalytic converter, directly causing emission exceedance and failing the annual inspection.

Last year when I bought a car, I specifically researched emission standards. The VI you mentioned refers to the China 6 standard. This standard imposes particularly strict controls on vehicle pollutants, especially with high restrictions on particulate matter emissions. There are two notable benefits to a China 6 compliant vehicle: one is greater freedom to enter restricted traffic zones, and the other is higher resale value. However, it's important to remember that fueling such vehicles requires attention—always use low-sulfur gasoline from reputable gas stations. Otherwise, the particulate filter can easily get clogged. My former neighbor with an older car used cheap fuel, resulting in the engine light frequently coming on. After several repairs, they discovered the issue was poor fuel quality affecting the emission system.

The technician at the inspection station near my home told me that the China VI emission standards impose high technical requirements on vehicles, mandating that every car must be equipped with a real-time monitoring system. This standard focuses on controlling three major pollutants: a 30% reduction in carbon monoxide, an 80% decrease in nitrogen oxides, and a halving of particulate matter emissions. All new vehicles on the market bearing the VI label comply with this standard, including hybrid models. During annual inspections in many cities, if the OBD diagnostics show abnormal emission data, the vehicle is directly deemed unqualified. It is recommended that car owners perform regular , especially cleaning the intake tract and replacing the air filter.

Over the years in the business, I've found that emission standards directly impact vehicle residual value. VI represents the China VI standard, and such cars are particularly sought after in cities with license plate restrictions. Currently, China V vehicles face difficulties in cross-province transfers, while China VI vehicles can circulate nationwide. From a technical perspective, China VI vehicles are equipped with advanced exhaust treatment devices, such as three-way catalytic converters and particulate filters. However, it's important to note that emissions can be higher during cold starts in winter, so it's best to let the car warm up for a minute before driving. Avoid prolonged low-RPM driving to save fuel, as this can easily lead to particulate filter blockages, which may instead increase fuel consumption.

A friend who is into car modifications told me that the China VI emission standards impose significant restrictions on power tuning. This standard requires all new vehicles to meet specific emission data under designated driving cycles, so factory engine tuning tends to be conservative. If you see a 'VI' badge on the rear, it means the car complies with China VI emissions. When such a car, pay attention to two things: first, avoid unauthorized removal or modification of the exhaust system, as it can affect sensor accuracy; second, perform regular intake system cleaning, as excessive carbon buildup can lead to incomplete combustion and exceed emission limits. Currently, most China VI-compliant models on the market are equipped with an EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions.


