China to Enforce 2026 EV Rule Aimed at Longer Driving Range

China will enforce a new full EV or electric car rule in 2026 that limits energy use, a move that can extend driving range per charge.
A rechargeable Lithium-ion battery. China will enforce a new full EV or electric car rule in 2026 that limits energy use, a move that can extend driving range per charge.(Photo: Ronny Hartmann / AFP)

China will begin enforcing mandatory limits on how much energy a pure battery-electric passenger cars can use starting Jan. 1, 2026, replacing a voluntary efficiency framework with binding national rules. For drivers, the change can deliver longer driving range on a single charge without larger batteries, regulators say.

From 2026, only pure electric passenger vehicles that meet the mandatory energy-use limits will remain eligible for tax exemptions.

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by Edwin Shri Bimo

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