What is the emission standard for 2011 sedans?
2 Answers
2011 sedans belong to the China IV emission standard, which was implemented starting in 2011. This means all sedans produced in 2011 comply with the China IV standard. Automobile emissions refer to harmful gases such as CO (carbon monoxide), HC+NOx (hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides), and PM (particulate matter, soot) discharged from exhaust. These are all harmful byproducts generated during engine combustion. To control these emissions and encourage manufacturers to improve their products, both Europe and the United States have established relevant automobile emission standards. China's emission standards are based on European standards. Currently, all domestically produced new vehicles indicate the European standard their engine emissions meet. China's Light-Duty Vehicle China III and China IV emission standards have identical pollutant emission limits to Euro 3 and Euro 4 standards, but with some improvements in testing methods and significant differences in regulatory format. Considering that vehicles have been in use for some time, the emission limits for in-use China IV standard vehicles are slightly more lenient compared to new vehicles. However, they are still 34% stricter than China III standards. For China IV vehicles, the initial inspection interval is every two years. During annual inspections, vehicle emissions must meet the published standard limits; otherwise, maintenance is required before passing the inspection. Additionally, the current local emission standards for oil storage depots, tanker trucks, and gas stations regarding vapor recovery have been tightened. Compared to the original standards, the emission limits for oil storage depots' vapor treatment devices are 25% stricter. Gas stations are now required to install online monitoring and vapor emission treatment systems. These measures can improve vapor recovery efficiency by 5% to 10%, and the online monitoring system can track the working status of vapor recovery equipment in real time.
I recall that the emission standards for sedans in 2011 were typically at the China IV level, as I've driven several cars from that year and often encountered them during repairs. Back then, the China IV standard officially took effect from July 1st, primarily targeting new vehicle registrations. Therefore, for cars produced in 2011, those manufactured in the first half of the year might still adhere to the older China III standard, while those produced after the second half generally upgraded to China IV. This standard controls tailpipe pollutants, such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide emission limits, making it more environmentally friendly. Looking back now, China IV cars from 2011 had higher pass rates during annual inspections because the standards were stricter; however, for vehicle transfers or used car transactions, there might be some restrictions in certain areas, such as major cities possibly requiring China V or above for transfers. It's advisable for car owners to check the environmental label in the vehicle's green book to confirm the emission standard level to avoid disadvantages when buying a used car. In fact, the continuous advancement of emission standards is a good thing—it protects the environment and can also save money. Subsequent standards like China V and China VI are even more advanced, offering a much cleaner driving experience.
