
China III standard was introduced on July 1, 2008. Here are the specific details about China III standard: 1. Definition of China III standard: It is the abbreviation for the National Phase III Emission Standard, equivalent to the Euro III emission standard. This means the content of tailpipe pollutants is equivalent to Euro III levels, with the only difference being that new vehicles must be equipped with an OBD diagnostic system. 2. Significance of China III standard: To improve air quality and further curb environmental pollution caused by vehicle emissions, higher standards for energy conservation and emission reduction will be gradually implemented nationwide.

I know the China III emission standard was mandatorily implemented nationwide in July 2007. In fact, the official standard document was released as early as the end of 2005, but its actual enforcement was phased in by region. Major cities like Beijing moved quickly, implementing it ahead of schedule by the end of 2006, with other regions following suit. This standard is quite detailed, primarily targeting the exhaust emissions of gasoline and diesel vehicles, limiting pollutants such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides. Car buyers should note that new vehicles manufactured after July 2007 must comply with China III standards to be registered. I recommend checking the vehicle's environmental label for the most reliable information, as it clearly indicates which emission standard (China III, IV, etc.) the vehicle meets.

The nationwide implementation of the China III emission standards truly took place in the summer of 2007. I remember back then many 4S dealerships were clearing out their inventory vehicles, as all newly registered vehicles had to comply starting July. In fact, the policy had been in the works for a while, with the official document issued as early as the end of 2005, but sufficient transition periods were given to manufacturers. Beijing was even stricter, taking the lead in enforcing the standards by December 2006. The focus was on controlling exhaust pollutants from diesel vehicles, requiring the installation of particulate filters. The visible distinction between green-label and yellow-label vehicles on the roads today originated from that period. Vehicle owners are advised to check the supplementary page of their vehicle registration certificates, where the emission standard is clearly stated in the designated column.

The nationwide implementation of China III emission standards was in July 2007. Beijing took the lead by implementing it six months earlier, starting at the end of 2006. This standard was particularly strict for diesel vehicles, requiring the installation of particulate filters. At that time, many old trucks were phased out, and repair shops often encountered owners asking whether to upgrade the three-way catalytic converter. Those buying used cars now should pay special attention, as vehicles manufactured before 2008 are most likely China III compliant, and there may be restrictions on ownership transfer. The most accurate way to check is the Vehicle Conformity Certificate, where detailed emission data can be found on the second-to-last page.


