When is a car considered a China IV vehicle?
3 Answers
China IV emission standards began in 2011 and lasted until 2018 when China V standards were implemented. Therefore, vehicles produced between 2011 and 2017 all meet China IV standards. The China IV standards require approximately 50% lower emissions of various pollutants compared to China III standards. Here are the relevant details: The China IV emission standard is the fourth phase of national motor vehicle pollutant emission standards in China. The main pollutants emitted by vehicles include HC (hydrocarbons), NOx (nitrogen oxides), CO (carbon monoxide), and PM (particulate matter). Through the application of technologies such as improved catalytic converter active layers, secondary air injection, and exhaust gas recirculation systems with cooling devices, the standards aim to control and reduce vehicle emissions to below specified levels.
I remember researching emission standards when I bought my car. China IV vehicles generally refer to those manufactured after January 2011, as the national standard was fully enforced at that time. For example, my old 2010 car doesn't meet China IV standards - only light gasoline or diesel vehicles produced after 2011 qualify. The simplest way is to check the production nameplate or environmental label on the vehicle, where 'China IV' is directly marked. The VIN code can also reveal the year portion, with later-year models typically being China IV compliant. Such cars are still common in the used car market but are cheaper than newer-standard vehicles. Some cities restrict entry to central areas only for China IV or above vehicles, so always verify before purchasing a used car to avoid issues. I recommend checking with the vehicle management office or environmental protection websites to confirm your model's records.
Having worked in car repairs for many years, I've seen numerous emission issues. China IV vehicles were mostly produced between 2011-2016, just check the production date on the nameplate. After the new standard was implemented in 2011, the exhaust systems of new cars were upgraded, making them more environmentally friendly and durable than older China III models. From experience, the 10th digit of the VIN often indicates the production year, with vehicles around 2011 typically being China IV. When repairing these cars, catalytic converter replacements are more expensive, but they have higher emission test pass rates. Remember that the environmental green label specifies the exact standard, and urban traffic restriction policies make China IV vehicles more desirable, though recent trends show they're being phased out.
