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When it takes effect

Clause 10 — Implementation of the Standard

For new vehicle models applying for type approval, the standard shall be implemented from the date of implementation of this document; for vehicle models that have already obtained type approval, the standard shall be implemented starting from the 13th month after the implementation of this document.

Source: GB 38031-2025 clause 10 (PDF page 29).

Key dates

Event Date
Document released 2025-03-28
Standard takes effect 2026-07-01
New vehicle type approvals must comply with GB 38031-2025 from 2026-07-01
Already-approved vehicle models must comply with GB 38031-2025 from 2027-08-01 (13 months after the implementation date)

What this means in practice

For new type approvals (from 2026-07-01)

Any vehicle model applying for type approval on or after 2026-07-01 must demonstrate compliance with GB 38031-2025. This includes the two new tests (8.1.8 fast-charge cycle safety; 8.2.16 bottom impact) and the revised thermal propagation criterion (5.2.7 b)).

For already-approved models (from 2027-08-01)

Vehicle models that obtained type approval before 2026-07-01 under GB 38031-2020 have a 13-month grace period. From 2027-08-01 they must also comply with GB 38031-2025.

Engineering note (non-normative): Clause 10 references "the 13th month after the implementation of this document". Interpreting "implementation" as the effective date 2026-07-01, the 13th month after begins 2027-08-01. This matches the published interpretation in the cheatsheet timeline. If your timeline depends on a different reading of "13th month", verify against the Chinese-language original before committing.

Planning checklist

  • OEMs with new platforms in design — target the 2026-07-01 date for type-approval submission. Both new tests (8.1.8 and 8.2.16) typically need new fixturing; budget for that.
  • OEMs with existing GB 38031-2020 type approvals — plan the GB 38031-2025 retest campaign to land before 2027-08-01. Focus on the revised thermal propagation criterion, which is the most consequential single change.
  • Importers — vehicles delivered after the applicable date must comply. Coordinate with the manufacturer's compliance team on the retest schedule.

Cross-references