What is the difference between National 4 and National 5 vehicles?
3 Answers
The differences between National 4 and National 5 vehicles are: 1. Different nitrogen oxide emission limits: National 4 vehicles have a nitrogen oxide emission limit of 0.25 grams per kilometer; National 5 vehicles have a nitrogen oxide emission limit of 0.18 grams per kilometer. 2. Different particulate emission concentrations: National 4 vehicles have a particulate emission concentration of 0.025; National 5 vehicles have a particulate emission concentration of 0.0045. National 4 and National 5 refer to the tailpipe emission standards set by environmental protection agencies, with higher numbers indicating relatively lower pollution levels in exhaust emissions. The National 5 standard is equivalent to the EU's Euro 5 standard, which imposes stricter limits on vehicle emissions such as nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter.
The differences between China 4 and China 5 vehicles are significant, primarily due to the upgraded environmental standards. China 5 requires lower emissions, imposing stricter limits on pollutants like carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons, reducing them by about 30% compared to China 4. Having driven a China 5 vehicle for several years, the biggest benefit I've noticed is a slight reduction in smog, especially in urban areas where air quality isn't as bad. In terms of maintenance, China 5 vehicles have more sophisticated emission systems and require higher-quality fuel; otherwise, they're prone to malfunctions. However, they make annual inspections much easier. When buying a new car, I recommend opting for China 5, as national policies are pushing for newer standards—some regions now even restrict the transfer of China 4 vehicles. In the long run, choosing a higher-standard vehicle is a wise choice for health reasons. In the used car market, China 5 vehicles hold their value better and depreciate more slowly, something my friends often mention when swapping cars.
Technically speaking, the China 5 standard significantly lowered the limits for pollutants like CO, HC, and NOx compared to China 4, with particularly stricter controls on NOx emissions for diesel vehicles. Based on my automotive knowledge, China 5 compliant vehicles feature upgraded catalytic converters in their emission systems for more efficient exhaust treatment. In daily driving, China 5 vehicles might consume slightly more fuel, but this trade-off brings better environmental performance, such as reduced urban smog. From a maintenance perspective, the components are more refined, with parts being more expensive but durable. Policy-wise, China 5 is the new benchmark, with many regions restricting China 4 vehicles or experiencing faster depreciation. When buying used cars, checking the emission standard helps avoid regrets. The relevant trend is that the country is progressing toward China 6 standards, indicating that higher standards are the future.
