The State Administration for Market Regulation (also known as the Standardization Administration of the People's Republic of China) has given the green light for the release of a new compulsory national standard—Technical Conditions for the Safety of Motor Vehicle Operation (GB 7258—2026). This standard is set to take effect on July 1, 2027. In recent years, China has experienced a steady rise in the volume of motor vehicles, along with an increasing adoption rate of new energy and intelligent connected vehicles. Nevertheless, the utilization of traditional vehicle safety equipment has remained subpar, and there is a noticeable absence of sufficient safety measures tailored to new energy and intelligent connected vehicles.

To tackle these challenges, the Ministry of Public Security, in collaboration with other relevant departments, has revised the standard. The revision places emphasis on updating technical requirements across four critical domains:

• Firstly, it aims to bolster the inherent safety of large and medium-sized passenger and freight vehicles by expanding the implementation of systems like automatic emergency braking.
• Secondly, it standardizes safety requirements for the integration of new technologies, such as new energy and intelligent driving. This includes regulating the use of "single-pedal" braking and introducing features to prevent unintended acceleration caused by pedal misapplication in new energy passenger vehicles.
• Thirdly, it refines technical requirements for vehicle registration and management safety, such as imposing stricter standards for vehicle identification number engraving.
• Fourthly, it incorporates technical requirements aimed at mitigating safety risks associated with typical vehicle accidents, such as integrating requirements for panoramic imaging monitoring systems.

This standard is poised to offer vital technical backing for the design and manufacturing of motor vehicles, as well as for road traffic safety management. It will drive the advancement of the automotive industry and ensure the protection of public safety.