China Mandates Energy Limits for Electric Passenger Vehicles from 2026

China has officially issued GB 36980.1-2025, establishing mandatory energy consumption limits for pure electric passenger vehicles. The regulation marks the country’s first compulsory national standard specifically setting maximum energy consumption thresholds for electric vehicles (EVs).

The standard was approved on May 30, 2025, and will take effect on January 1, 2026.

Transition from Voluntary to Mandatory Compliance

The newly issued standard replaces the earlier voluntary framework, GB/T 36980-2018.

By upgrading from a “GB/T” (recommended) classification to a mandatory “GB” standard, Chinese regulators have strengthened enforcement over EV energy efficiency performance.

The move aligns with China’s broader national strategies, including:

  • Electric vehicle efficiency optimization
  • Carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals
  • Industrial modernization and technological innovation

Scope of Application

GB 36980.1-2025 applies to:

  • Pure battery electric passenger vehicles (BEVs)
  • M1 category passenger cars
  • Vehicles with a maximum design gross mass of up to 3,500 kg

The standard does not apply to hybrid vehicles or heavy-duty commercial EVs, which remain subject to separate regulatory frameworks.

Key Technical Requirements

Energy Consumption Limits

The regulation establishes maximum allowable energy consumption values expressed in kWh per 100 km. The limits vary depending on:

  • Vehicle mass
  • Technical configuration
  • Vehicle classification
Stricter Performance Benchmarks

The 2025 standard is approximately 11% more stringent than the 2018 voluntary version.

For example, a pure electric passenger vehicle weighing around two tonnes must meet an indicative limit of approximately 15 kWh per 100 km.

Compliance and Certification

Manufacturers must meet requirements covering:

  • Type approval testing
  • Conformity of production (CoP)
  • Same-type vehicle determination
  • Certification prior to market entry

From 2026 onward, compliance will be mandatory for new type approvals.

Industry Impact

1. Manufacturers

Automakers may need to redesign or optimize vehicle efficiency to meet the stricter thresholds. Existing approved models could require re-validation before continued market access.

2. Importers

Imported electric passenger vehicles must comply with the new Chinese energy consumption limits before being placed on the market.

3. Innovation and Market Competitiveness

The regulation is expected to accelerate innovation in:

  • Lightweight materials
  • Aerodynamic design
  • High-efficiency motor systems
  • Advanced battery management
  • Thermal management technologies

Policy Linkages and Incentives

Compliance with GB 36980.1-2025 is anticipated to influence eligibility for:

  • EV purchase tax exemptions
  • Industrial policy incentives
  • Energy efficiency labeling schemes

Non-compliant models may risk losing access to certain fiscal benefits.

Recommended Actions for Stakeholders

OEMs should conduct energy consumption gap assessments, complete type approval updates before Q4 2025, and align product development pipelines with the 2026 limits.

Compliance teams are advised to review testing documentation and monitor linked EV incentive policies.

Supply chain partners should support efficiency improvements in components and system integration to ensure full
compliance.

Source: GB36980.1-2025

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