China is considering a significant adjustment to its regulations for electric bicycles, proposing to increase the maximum speed limit on non-motorized vehicle lanes from 15 kilometers per hour to 20 kilometers per hour. This change is part of a broader revision of the Road Traffic Safety Law, which was presented for its first review at the 14th National People’s Congress Standing Committee meeting on August 25th.
Key Amendments and Focus Areas
The draft revision, comprising 9 chapters and 170 articles, aims to address several pressing issues in road safety while also introducing measures to facilitate public travel. Alongside the proposed speed limit increase for electric bikes, the draft explicitly prohibits dangerous riding behaviors. These include riding against traffic, exceeding speed limits, running red lights, and using handheld mobile devices for calls or video playback while riding.
Furthermore, the draft emphasizes rider safety by mandating that both the rider and any passenger on an electric bicycle must wear safety helmets in accordance with regulations. This reflects a growing concern for the well-being of cyclists and a push towards safer riding practices.
Broader Context of the Revision
The current Road Traffic Safety Law, enacted in 2004 and amended several times since, is undergoing its most substantial overhaul. The revision addresses modern challenges such as the operation of autonomous vehicles, clarifying conditions for their use on public roads, principles for handling violations, and insurance systems. It also targets specific problems like drunk driving, “blind driving” (presumably driving without adequate visibility or attention), “zombie cars” (vehicles left unregistered or unmaintained for extended periods), and non-compliant “over-standard” electric vehicles.
The regulation of electric bicycles and “stormtrooper groups” (likely referring to large, unorganized cycling groups) are also highlighted as areas requiring enhanced oversight.
Industry Response and Standard Compliance
This proposed regulatory shift follows recent industry initiatives aimed at promoting compliance with new national standards for electric bicycles. As reported previously by IT之家, a “2026 New National Standard Electric Bicycle Promotion Activity” took place on January 29th in Beijing. During this event, members of the Electric Bicycle Industry Self-Discipline Alliance (EDSA) showcased over 30 new electric bicycle models certified under the new national standard (CCC certification).
The alliance also signed a convention to resist non-compliant practices within the industry. This convention specifically calls for strict adherence to standards and the rejection of illegal modifications. Manufacturers committed to fully implementing the “Electric Bicycle Safety Technical Specification” (GB 17761-2024) and similar mandatory national standards throughout their product development, manufacturing, and sales processes. They pledged to actively prevent and eliminate any form of illegal modification, such as removing speed limiters, installing higher-power motors, adding larger capacity batteries, or fitting non-compliant components like high-beam headlights.
Implications of the Proposed Change
The proposed increase in the speed limit from 15 kph to 20 kph on non-motorized lanes acknowledges the evolving nature of electric bicycles and their common usage patterns. However, this increase is coupled with stricter enforcement of other traffic rules, ensuring that enhanced speeds do not compromise overall road safety. The mandatory helmet rule further underscores the commitment to protecting riders.
This revision to the Road Traffic Safety Law represents a significant step in China’s efforts to modernize its traffic regulations, balancing the convenience and popularity of electric mobility with the paramount need for safety on its roads.
