Photo: NEV

Given the rapid development of vehicles using lithium-ion batteries in China, there is increasing urgency for China to establish stricter and higher standards for the battery manufacturing sector. This is also one of the key factors related to China's electric bicycles and vehicles going global.

Cities in China, including Beijing, have established local technical standards for the safety of lithium-ion batteries used in electric bicycles, while mandatory national standards are about to be introduced, state broadcaster China Central Television reported on Sunday.

The news came days after a deadly fire broke out last week in Nanjing, capital of East China's Jiangsu Province. The fire was reportedly caused by electric bicycles parked inside a residential building, and it once again brought to light the importance of ensuring the safety of electric bicycles' lithium-ion batteries. 

While the fatal fire has had a negative impact on China's electric bicycle industry, it could also be an opportunity for Chinese battery manufacturers to upgrade their technology standards. 

It is not just the safety of lithium-ion batteries used in electric bicycles that is getting attention. Many internet users on social media platforms have suggested that the safety of batteries in electric vehicles also needs to be taken seriously and requires continuous improvement.

The Chinese government and other relevant authorities have already realized the importance of ensuring the safety of batteries, and they are continuously strengthening regulations and standards. For instance, in December 2023, the State Administration for Market Regulation announced national standards regarding the improvement of the charging facilities and batteries of electric vehicles. The continuous updating of industry standards is crucial to the development of China's electric vehicle industry, which is huge and developing rapidly.

Driven by climate change goals, the global electric vehicle and bicycle market has grown considerably in recent years, with Chinese manufacturers playing a large role. 

In 2023, sales of new-energy passenger cars in China accounted for nearly two-thirds of the world's total, industry data showed. Some 8.87 million such vehicles were sold in the Chinese market in 2023, up 37 percent from a year earlier and making up 63.5 percent of global sales.

According to 36kr.com, China's production of electric bicycles accounted for more than 80 percent of the global total, and it has become a main source of electric bicycle imports by ASEAN.

As the world's major market and producer of electric vehicles and bicycles, China is bound to face multiple challenges, which means that it must be at the forefront of technology and industry standards ensuring product quality and safety. It matters to people's lives and property as well as the future of the industry. Only by ensuring technical capability and safety can China's electric vehicles and bicycles lay the foundation of going global and win the recognition and trust of the international market.

When it comes to Chinese batteries used in electric vehicles globally, the key lies in leading technology capabilities and standards, rather than engaging in cut-throat price competition that would only harm the industry's interests. The standards and regulations for China's battery industry must stay ahead of international market levels to ensure high levels of product quality and safety.

Also, supporting infrastructure such as charging facilities and parking regulations are also crucial and need clear specifications and standards. 

Finally, it is also essential for the Chinese government and industry players to work together to strengthen technological research and development and take the initiative of setting industry standards based on international trends, norms and rules. Only by continuously improving technological levels and standards can the Chinese battery industry enjoy healthy development and contribute to environmental protection and sustainable development, gaining a foothold on the international stage.