Which Year's Vehicles Belong to National Standard IV?
3 Answers
Vehicles manufactured after 2011 generally comply with the National Standard IV (also known as China 4), while those meeting National Standard III can no longer be registered. The National Standard IV was implemented nationwide on July 1, 2010, featuring upgrades in the post-emission treatment system compared to National Standard III, reducing pollutant emissions by 50% to 60%. Below is an introduction to the National Standard IV emission standards: 1. The National Standard IV is the fourth phase of China's motor vehicle pollutant emission standards, targeting pollutants such as HC (hydrocarbons), NOx (nitrogen oxides), CO (carbon monoxide), and PM (particulate matter). It achieves stricter emission limits through technologies like advanced catalytic converter active layers, secondary air injection, and cooled exhaust gas recirculation systems. 2. According to the plan, Beijing implemented the 'National Fourth Phase Motor Vehicle Pollutant Emission Standards' (referred to as 'National Standard IV') for all newly added vehicles in 2013. Fuel compliant with National Standard IV has been supplied citywide since January 1, 2008.
I recall that the China IV emission standard was implemented in 2008. Back then, China took the lead in launching it in major cities like Beijing to control air pollution. Subsequently, it became mandatory nationwide in July 2011. Generally speaking, vehicles manufactured in 2008 or later fall under the China IV category, as many new cars were certified from that time onward. I often see discussions on forums where car owners talk about checking the VIN code to determine the emission level. The tenth character of the VIN code corresponds to the year—if it's 2008, it's likely China IV. This is also something to pay attention to when buying a used car. China IV vehicles tend to have lower fuel consumption and are more environmentally friendly. Nowadays, with stricter traffic restrictions in big cities, older vehicles need to be replaced.
I have an insight: 2008 was a critical point for China's automotive emission upgrades, marking the official implementation of the National IV standard, which imposed restrictions on pollutant emissions such as PM and NOx for new vehicle production. However, regional differences were significant, with Beijing taking early action while other areas didn't fully implement it until 2011. Generally, vehicles produced from 2008 onward are mostly National IV compliant, but the registration date is also a key factor. Simply put, you can check the vehicle's environmental label or enter the license plate number on the vehicle management office's website to confirm. Such vehicles feature modified exhaust pipe structures and more efficient catalytic converters, resulting in less noticeable exhaust odor and contributing to improved air quality.
