Major Overhaul in Electric Vehicle Regulations Set for Late 2025: New Standards, Market Withdrawals, and End of National Subsidies

The second half of 2025 is set to witness significant changes in the electric vehicle (EV) market. Three major transformations are on the horizon: the implementation of new national standards for electric vehicles, the discontinuation of three specific types of electric vehicles, and the conclusion of national subsidies for vehicle trade-ins. These changes will have a substantial impact on our daily lives. Let’s explore these developments in detail.

Implementation of New National Standards

Starting from September 1, 2025, the new national standard for electric vehicles (GB 17761-2024) will officially take effect. This marks the first significant revision since the old standard was established in 2019. The new standards aim to comprehensively optimize the design, materials, and performance of electric vehicles, with over 200 parameters being adjusted. The core changes include:

• Elimination of Pedal Design: The previous requirement for electric vehicles to include pedals has been removed. The pedal was often criticized by users as unnecessary, and its removal will simplify vehicle structure, reduce failure rates, and create more space within the vehicle, resulting in a more streamlined design.
• Reduction in Plastic Usage: To enhance safety and reduce fire hazards, the new standards limit plastic usage to no more than 5.5% of the total vehicle weight. Some manufacturers are now using aluminum-magnesium alloys to replace plastic, thereby increasing vehicle strength.
• Improved Fire Resistance: The new standards require non-metallic materials to have higher fire resistance ratings and mandate improved thermal runaway protection for batteries, effectively reducing the risk of fire incidents and enhancing safety for electric vehicle users.
• Increased Battery Weight for Extended Range: To improve the range of electric vehicles, the allowable weight for lead-acid batteries will increase from 55 kg to 63 kg, permitting the installation of larger capacity batteries to extend the vehicle’s range.

Discontinuation of Three Types of Electric Vehicles

In the second half of 2025, the following three categories of electric vehicles will be phased out and will no longer be allowed for sale or use:

• Old Standard Vehicles: While vehicles built to the old standards can still be sold until November 30, they will be banned from sale starting December 1. Dealers must clear their inventory promptly, or they will face penalties.
• Modified Electric Vehicles: There will be strict enforcement against modified electric vehicles that have been illegally upgraded for speed or had their battery voltage or motor power increased, presenting safety risks. These vehicles will not be permitted on the roads.
• Over-Standard Vehicles: Following the implementation of the 2019 standards, vehicles not meeting the criteria have been classified as over-standard vehicles. With the transition period for these vehicles having ended, they will be prohibited from operation starting October 1, 2025.

Conclusion of Trade-In Subsidies

To accelerate the retirement of old standard vehicles and encourage the adoption of new standard electric vehicles, various provinces and cities have initiated trade-in programs offering national subsidies. Users who dispose of their old standard vehicles in exchange for new standard ones can receive subsidies ranging from 500 to 1,200 yuan, significantly reducing their costs. However, it is important to note that this trade-in program will conclude on December 31, 2025, with only 100 days left to take advantage of these subsidies.

Summary

The year 2025 will undoubtedly be a transformative year for the electric vehicle industry, particularly in the second half. With the implementation of new national standards, the phase-out of certain vehicle categories, and the end of trade-in subsidies, electric vehicle users should remain vigilant to avoid penalties for non-compliance.