What is the difference between China V and China IV?

[StLila]

The biggest difference between China V and China IV lies in stricter emission standards for heavy-duty vehicles. Additionally, China V has raised the standards for nitrogen oxides (NOX), the total sum of hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter concentration (PM). Furthermore, China V has introduced standards for particulate matter particle count (PN) and non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHC). Below is relevant information: China V, fully known as the National Fifth Stage Motor Vehicle Pollutant Emission Standard, and China IV, fully known as the National Fourth Stage Motor Vehicle Pollutant Emission Standard, both regulate the content of harmful gases such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, particulates, and soot emitted from vehicle exhaust.

[McParker]

I often help friends check cars, and the main difference between China 5 and China 4 lies in stricter emission controls. The China 5 standard lowered the emission limits for nitrogen oxides and particulate matter. For example, the nitrogen oxide limit was reduced from 0.08 grams per kilometer under China 4 to 0.06 grams per kilometer. It also enhanced the OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) system, enabling real-time fault monitoring to reduce harmful gas emissions. I remember China 4 was implemented around 2010, while China 5 was upgraded in 2017. This means driving a China 5-compliant vehicle is more environmentally friendly, reducing smog and health impacts. You might not feel much difference in actual driving, but when buying a new or used car, China 5 has more advantages, especially in big cities like Beijing and Shanghai, where registering a China 4 vehicle is difficult, while China 5 is much more hassle-free. In the long run, it also makes passing vehicle inspections easier, avoiding many troubles.

[GavinRose]

When I was buying a car, I compared China IV and China V models. The China V emission standards are stricter with more rigorous pollutant control. For example, the limits for carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons were significantly reduced, and an OBD system was added to monitor exhaust emissions. The advantage is that driving a China V car allows unrestricted license plate registration in eco-friendly cities, and insurance premiums might be lower. In contrast, China IV cars may face registration restrictions in controlled areas or faster depreciation in the used car market. I remember spending a bit more to buy a China V car—years later, it could retain more resale value, and maintenance is simpler since the OBD system automatically alerts to issues. I suggest friends looking to buy a car check local policies first to avoid future hassles.

[OEverett]

I think the China 5 standard is more environmentally friendly than China 4, with a significant reduction in pollutant emissions, greatly decreasing harmful gas discharge. Urban air quality will improve, and buying a new car becomes a more reassuring choice.