New National Standard for Electric Vehicle Batteries to Take Effect on July 1, 2026
On April 15, 2025, it was announced that the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has developed a mandatory national standard titled “Safety Requirements for Power Batteries Used in Electric Vehicles” (GB38031-2025). This standard is set to be implemented on July 1, 2026.
The revisions include updates to the thermal diffusion testing, which now provides clearer requirements regarding the temperature of the battery under test, power state, observation time, and testing conditions for the entire vehicle. The technical requirements have shifted from a focus on issuing thermal event alarms five minutes before fire or explosion to ensuring that batteries do not ignite or explode (though alarms are still required), and that smoke does not harm passengers.
Additionally, new tests have been introduced, such as a bottom impact test to evaluate the battery’s protective capabilities after being struck from underneath. There is also a new safety test following fast charge cycles, which requires testing for external short circuits after 300 fast charge cycles, again ensuring no fire or explosion occurs.
The revised standard clarifies that it applies specifically to power batteries used in electric vehicles, excluding non-drive batteries. Improvements have been made to the insulation resistance requirements, adding specifications for the insulation resistance of alternating current circuit battery systems. The requirements for extrusion testing have also been enhanced, introducing additional conditions for determining insulation resistance.
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