China Tightens EV Battery Tests Under New Safety Standard
Courtesy of Kuraray.
China’s updated mandatory safety standard for electric vehicle batteries took effect July 1, adding new testing requirements for impact, thermal diffusion and performance after repeated fast charging.
The standard, GB 38031-2025, replaces the country’s 2020 requirements for EV traction batteries. It applies to power batteries used for vehicle propulsion and excludes batteries used only for non-propulsion functions.
The revisions clarify temperature requirements, observation periods and vehicle conditions used during thermal-diffusion testing. They also add a bottom-impact test intended to evaluate how well the battery is protected when its underside is struck.
A separate requirement calls for an external short-circuit test after 300 fast-charge cycles. The battery must complete the test without catching fire or exploding.
The standard does not prescribe specific coating, insulation or thermal-barrier technologies. However, the additional impact and thermal-safety requirements are relevant to companies developing dielectric coatings, heat shields, fire-protection materials and protective systems for battery cells, modules and housings.
Looking for a reprint of this article?
From high-res PDFs to custom plaques, order your copy today!
