When will the new National Standard 6 for vehicles be implemented?
3 Answers
National Standard 6 for vehicles will be implemented starting from July 1, 2023. The standard is divided into two phases, a and b. As early as July 1, 2019, all light-duty vehicles sold and registered must comply with National Standard 6. The requirements for the two phases are as follows: 1. Phase a requirement: By no later than July 1, 2023, all light-duty vehicles sold and registered must comply with National Standard 6. 2. Phase b limit requirement: National Standard 6a can only be considered a transitional phase, while National Standard 6b is the true National Standard 6 phase. Note: Currently, some regions have implemented the National Standard 6 emission standards ahead of schedule. For example, Guangzhou implemented the National Standard 6 emission standards for light-duty gasoline and diesel vehicles starting from March 1, 2019; Shenzhen required light-duty diesel vehicles to comply with National Standard 6 starting from July 1, 2018, and light-duty gasoline vehicles to comply with National Standard 6 starting from July 1, 2019.
The new China VI emission standards were actually implemented in phases. China VIa was partially introduced in 2020, mainly targeting light-duty vehicles and certain cities. However, the most crucial part is China VIb, whose nationwide mandatory implementation date was July 1, 2023. From then on, all newly produced vehicles must meet stricter emission requirements to be sold in the market. This policy was designed by the government to reduce air pollution, such as limiting PM2.5 and nitrogen oxide emissions, helping to improve urban air quality. As a car buyer, I recommend checking the vehicle's nameplate or manual to ensure it is labeled as China VIb, making the car more environmentally friendly and providing peace of mind in daily use. The country promotes similar standard updates annually, and higher-level standards may be introduced in the future to further reduce vehicle pollution.
I specifically looked into this when I bought my car. China 6b was officially implemented on July 1, 2023, and all new cars manufactured after that date must comply. China 6a was enforced earlier, but the b standard has stricter requirements that can reduce more harmful emissions. When buying a car, it's crucial to ask about the production date. Cars from the past two years are generally fine, but be cautious with some inventory vehicles that might still meet the old standard. I think this is a good thing—it allows us to drive cleaner cars and contributes to a healthier environment. With air pollution being such a serious issue now, implementing these standards sooner means benefiting earlier. I feel more at ease letting my kids play outside. Automotive technology keeps advancing, and future emissions will only become lower and more eco-friendly.
