On April 3, 2025, the National New Energy Vehicle Standard will undergo major revisions. Since 2016, manufacturers of electric vehicles must ensure that key components such as batteries, electric controls, and electric motors meet strict quality standards for a minimum of eight years or 120,000 kilometers. This means that from now on, there will be a fixed annual quota for the performance quality of electric vehicle batteries, which will be mandatory starting next year.
This requirement is part of a broader initiative aimed at replacing traditional fuel-powered vehicles with new energy vehicles. Recent data indicates that in the first quarter of 2023, new energy vehicle sales increased significantly, with a total of over 8 million units sold as of 2021. The transition has led to a reduction in traditional fuel use, and the production of electric vehicles has not only continued to grow but has also remained stable.
Recent reports highlight that by 2030, the total number of electric vehicles in China is expected to reach around 350 million. However, managing the resulting electronic waste from these vehicles is a pressing concern. Efficient disposal processes need to be established to prevent environmental hazards stemming from battery waste.
To address these issues, since 2018, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has implemented five successive regulations aimed at improving the recycling of electric vehicle batteries. The focus has been on two primary methods: the gradual increase of recycling rates and the establishment of a robust recycling framework to handle the battery waste effectively.
Currently, several leading companies are engaged in recycling efforts, and they handle various types of battery materials. However, the challenge remains significant, as many recycling companies lack the necessary resources and technologies to operate effectively, and there is still a lack of stringent regulations governing the industry.
In summary, the new regulations aim to enhance the quality standards for electric vehicles over the next few years. The industry must strive to achieve a higher recycling rate for electric vehicle batteries, which is projected to be at least 85% by 2024. The initiative also emphasizes the importance of ensuring that electric vehicles are produced responsibly, and that sufficient measures are in place to manage their lifecycle effectively.
