China has released a new mandatory national standard for the safety of lithium-ion batteries used in electric motorcycles and electric mopeds. The standard, known as GB 36672—2026, will come into effect on July 1, 2027, following its approval by the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) and the Standardization Administration of China.
Addressing Growing Safety Concerns
The rapid growth of China’s electric motorcycle industry has seen a corresponding surge in the use of lithium-ion batteries. This increased adoption, while beneficial for performance and range, has also brought to light potential safety risks. To proactively address these concerns and enhance the overall safety of electric two-wheelers, the SAMR, in conjunction with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), has prioritized the update and strengthening of safety regulations.
Key Features of the New Standard
The newly released standard introduces several significant improvements aimed at bolstering battery safety across multiple dimensions:
Optimized Safety Assessment System
A core enhancement is the systematic optimization of safety assessment requirements. The standard now covers battery safety at three distinct levels: the battery cell, the battery pack, and the entire battery system. This comprehensive approach creates a robust safety chain, ensuring that safety is considered from the most granular component up to the integrated system. By refining assessment criteria, clarifying key focus areas, and ensuring seamless integration between different levels of indicators, the standard establishes a thorough, multi-layered battery safety evaluation framework.
Expanded Test Scenarios
Recognizing the diverse and often demanding conditions under which electric motorcycles operate, the standard significantly broadens its scope of testing. It incorporates new test items designed to simulate real-world usage, including scenarios like charging in low temperatures, resistance to impact and collision, and managing thermal runaway events. Specific additions include tests for heating after low-temperature cycling, squeeze resistance, handle strength, thermal diffusion, flame retardancy, and marking requirements. These rigorous tests, spanning electrical, mechanical, and material safety, dramatically improve the product’s adaptability to various operational environments, thereby greatly enhancing user safety.
Enhanced Standard Implementation Effectiveness
To ensure consistency and clarity in application, the standard defines clear rules for type determination. It also standardizes testing procedures and judgment criteria. This addresses previous issues of inconsistent testing outcomes and non-standardized operational practices within the industry. By significantly improving the uniformity of the standard, it provides crucial technical support for product inspection, quality supervision, and the compliant development of the industry.
From Recommendation to Mandate
Significantly, this revision marks a transition for the regulations, upgrading them from recommended standards to mandatory ones. This shift underscores the government’s commitment to prioritizing consumer safety. The implementation of GB 36672—2026 is expected to substantially elevate the safety performance of lithium-ion batteries in electric motorcycles and mopeds, effectively safeguarding consumers’ travel safety and legitimate rights. It aims to build a stronger safety net for the daily short-distance commutes of citizens.
