Korea Proposes New EV Rules for Heavy Vehicles

Notification Number: G/TBT/N/KOR/1341
Member Country: Republic of Korea
Notification Date: 4 February 2026
Covered Vehicles: Electric passenger vehicles over 3.5 tonnes GVWR

The Republic of Korea has submitted a draft regulatory notification to the WTO under G/TBT/N/KOR/1341, signaling changes in its automotive technical regulations for heavy electric passenger vehicles. The draft addresses testing, inspection, and enforcement procedures that manufacturers must follow prior to market entry.

Features of the Draft

1. Expanded Safety & Inspection Requirements
a. Mandatory safety systems, advanced driver assistance, battery safety, lighting, signaling, and braking standards.

2. Alignment with International Standards
a. Harmonization with UN-ECE regulations covering crashworthiness, emissions, energy efficiency, and advanced safety aids like LDWS and AEBS.

3. Updated Enforcement Rules
a. Revised testing and certification processes critical for both domestic and imported EVs.

Purpose of the Notification

Under WTO TBT rules, Korea is notifying this draft to:

• Maintain transparency for WTO Members and stakeholders.
• Align domestic regulations with global safety and environmental standards.
• Provide a comment window for feedback prior to final adoption.

Next Steps

• WTO Members typically have 60 days to submit comments or technical concerns.
• Relevant Korean authorities for feedback include KATS and MOLIT.

Impact for Industry

Manufacturers & Exporters:

• Must review draft requirements to ensure compliance and avoid market entry issues.
• Potential cost savings if regulations harmonize international standards.

Trade & Regulatory Policy:

• Reflects Korea’s focus on environmentally friendly vehicles and safety modernization.
• Early engagement allows countries with significant EV exports to address potential trade or technical concerns.

Source: Korea Draft EV Regulation