BUTOLPOST – The Chinese government officially implemented new, much stricter safety standards for electric vehicles (New Energy Vehicles/NEV) starting July 1, 2026.
These regulations require that electric vehicle batteries must not experience fire or explosion, even in the event of thermal disturbances or accidents.
This policy is contained in the two newest national standards, namely Safety Requirements for Electric Vehicles (GB18384-2025) and Safety Requirements for Power Batteries for Electric Vehicles (GB38031-2025). These two regulations are designed to increase protection for vehicles as well as battery systems.
One of the most significant changes is the mandatory use of a physical high voltage circuit breaker system via a one-touch power-off mechanism. This feature allows the driver to cut off electricity with just one action, making the evacuation and rescue process easier during an emergency.
In the battery sector, the Chinese government has drastically raised safety standards. If previously manufacturers were only required to give a five-minute warning before a fire or explosion occurred due to thermal disturbances, now batteries are required to be able to completely prevent fires or explosions. Apart from that, the smoke produced must not endanger the safety of passengers.
The new regulations also introduce impact testing of the vehicle’s undercarriage to ensure the battery remains protected when the car hits a hard object on the road. On the other hand, the battery must also pass safety tests after undergoing 300 fast charging cycles, including remaining safe when subjected to external short circuit testing.
Industry observers assess that this regulation will speed up the screening of electric vehicle manufacturers. Companies that are able to meet high safety standards are expected to increasingly excel, while manufacturers that rely on cheap, low-quality products will find it increasingly difficult to compete.
Dr. Han Guangshuai from Tongji University said this new standard would also increase market confidence in used electric vehicles, as well as help the insurance industry in determining more reasonable premiums.
Meanwhile, CATL Chief Scientist, Wu Kai, estimates that the implementation of this standard will reduce the spontaneous fire rate of electric vehicles in China to ten times lower than internal combustion engine vehicles.
A number of large manufacturers have expressed their readiness. CATL revealed that all mass-produced battery lines have passed new standard testing since May 2025. BYD also confirmed that the second generation Blade Battery has successfully exceeded all safety requirements set by the government.
However, analysts estimate that implementing additional safety technologies could increase battery production costs. As a result, the price of new electric vehicles after July 2026 has the potential to increase, although the amount still depends on the strategy of each manufacturer.
The Chinese government also continues to strengthen regulations through the preparation of new standards, including an early battery fire detection system which is expected to provide maximum protection for electric vehicle users in the future. ***
