I. New National Standard GB43854 Overview

(1) Background and Purpose of the Standard’s Publication

In recent years, the electric bicycle industry has experienced rapid growth. China is both a major producer and a major user of electric bicycles, with the total number in circulation now exceeding 3.5 hundreds of millions of vehicles. As the industry continues to expand, the number of safety incidents involving electric bicycles—particularly those powered by lithium batteries—has been steadily rising. According to data released by the National Fire and Rescue Bureau, 2023  Nationwide, a total of electric bicycle fires were reported this year. 2.1  Starting from ten thousand, compared to... 2022  Year-on-year increase 17.4% These accidents have resulted in significant casualties and property damage, with far-reaching social repercussions.

Against this backdrop, in order to strengthen the regulation of lithium-ion batteries used in electric bicycles, safeguard the safety of people’s lives and property, and promote the high-quality development of the electric bicycle industry, GB43854-2024 The national standard “Safety Technical Specification for Lithium-Ion Batteries Used in Electric Bicycles” has been introduced to comprehensively regulate products, enhance intrinsic safety, and reduce the occurrence of safety incidents.

(II) Main Contents and Scope of Application of the Standard

GB43854-2024 The standard specifies safety requirements for batteries at two levels: the individual cell and the battery pack.

At the single-cell level, the main provisions stipulate that… 6 These safety requirements cover marking, overcharge, overdischarge, external short circuit, thermal abuse, and nail penetration. For example, the overcharge test stipulates that, under specified conditions, the battery must neither catch fire nor explode while undergoing overcharging, and it must maintain its rated voltage and capacity. The nail penetration test involves using a prescribed needle‑penetration device to pierce the battery perpendicularly through the electrode plates; again, no fire or explosion is permitted. This test is primarily used to assess the safety of cells in the event of an internal short circuit, and any cell that fails the nail penetration test may not be approved for use.

At the battery pack level, the main provisions are as follows: 22 These safety requirements specifically include marking, electrostatic discharge, over‑discharge, overcharging, thermal protection, external short circuit, interoperable and coordinated charging, data acquisition, insulation resistance, compression, acceleration shock, vibration, free drop, handle strength, flame retardancy, low pressure, overcurrent discharge, temperature cycling, immersion, salt spray, damp heat cycling, and thermal runaway. For example, the standard mandates that battery packs must be equipped with protective circuits against overcharging, short circuits, and other hazards; in the event of overcharging or a short circuit, appropriate measures must be promptly implemented, and the protection functions must remain effective even when a single component fails—essentially providing double redundancy for the battery. Additionally, the standard requires that the battery pack bear a unique identification code in a conspicuous location; this code must at least include the manufacturer’s code and be a high‑temperature‑resistant, permanent marking capable of withstanding ( 950±10 ) °C High temperatures, even in the event of a fire incident, enable traceability, facilitating accident investigation and accountability, and encouraging enterprises to proactively enhance product quality and safety. Meanwhile, the battery pack should be clearly marked with… “ Safe service life ” The specific service life is determined by the manufacturer based on the characteristics of the product model, serving to remind users to replace aging batteries in a timely manner. After all, as lithium‑ion batteries age, their reliability and safety steadily decline, significantly increasing safety risks. In addition, battery packs should be equipped with interoperable, coordinated charging functionality—meaning that charging can only commence after successful communication between the charger and the battery pack—thereby mitigating safety risks arising from mismatches between chargers and battery packs.

This standard applies to the “Safety Technical Specification for Electric Bicycles” ( GB17761—2018 ) The nominal voltage specified in the mandatory national standard shall not exceed 48V , the maximum output voltage shall not exceed 60V Lithium-ion batteries for electric bicycles, such as the commonly used lithium-manganese oxide batteries, lithium iron phosphate batteries, and ternary lithium batteries, all fall within this category. However, they are not suitable for lithium-ion batteries used in electric motorcycles, electric scooters, self-balancing scooters, and similar vehicles.

II. Impact on the Electric Vehicle Industry

(1) Transformations in the Battery Sector

1. Low-quality lithium batteries are being phased out.

New National Standard GB43854-2024 Following implementation, the regulation of lithium‑ion batteries for electric bicycles has become much stricter, effectively barring a large number of substandard, low‑quality lithium batteries from entering the market. In the past, many small workshops supplied remanufactured or modified batteries that often relied on recycled scrap cells from dismantled vehicles and non‑conforming batteries discarded by manufacturers, leaving safety seriously compromised. Moreover, some battery‑swap stations also used inferior cells or assembled batteries through second‑life or cascade‑use approaches, further undermining quality. Today, enforcement authorities can, in accordance with the relevant standards, inspect both the end‑user market and offline… “ Custom Lithium Batteries ”  By bringing such irregularities under control—addressing both the source and the distribution channels—we can reduce the occurrence of substandard lithium batteries, effectively rectify the chaotic state of the lithium‑battery market, and ensure that battery use in electric bicycles is safer and more standardized.

2. Battery PACK Safety Sexual enhancement

The standard sets forth comprehensive safety test requirements and protective measures for batteries. At the cell level, key tests include overcharge and nail penetration tests. For instance, the overcharge test mandates that, under specified conditions, the battery must neither catch fire nor explode while undergoing overcharging, and it must maintain its rated voltage and capacity. The nail penetration test involves using a prescribed needle‑penetration device to pierce the battery perpendicularly through the electrode plates; again, no fire or explosion is permitted, thereby assessing the cell’s safety in the event of an internal short circuit. Cells that fail the nail penetration test are ineligible for use. At the battery pack level, additional requirements are stipulated… 22 Safety requirements—such as mandating that battery packs be equipped with protection circuits against overcharge, short circuit, and other hazards—ensure that appropriate measures are promptly implemented when overcharging or a short circuit occurs. Moreover, these protective functions must remain effective even in the event of a single-component failure, effectively providing double-layered safeguards for the battery. These stringent requirements fundamentally enhance battery safety, significantly reducing the incidence of safety incidents caused by battery-related issues and thereby protecting users’ lives and property.

3. Battery PACK Changes in the typological landscape

Under the stringent requirements of the new national standard, the strengths and weaknesses of different types of lithium‑ion battery packs have become increasingly apparent, and their market shares are undergoing significant shifts. The lithium‑ion batteries commonly used in electric bicycles include lithium‑manganese oxide batteries, lithium‑iron‑phosphate batteries, and ternary lithium batteries. Among these, ternary lithium batteries can be further categorized into high‑nickel nickel‑cobalt‑manganese batteries, nickel‑cobalt‑aluminum batteries, and nickel‑free lithium‑iron‑manganese phosphate batteries. For instance, high‑nickel ternary lithium batteries struggle to pass tests such as overcharge and nail penetration stipulated in the new national standard, which may constrain their future adoption in the electric bicycle sector. In contrast, lithium‑iron‑phosphate batteries, with their superior safety and excellent stability, are poised to assume a more prominent position in the market. Looking ahead, as the market places greater emphasis on the overall performance of battery packs—particularly safety and range—the battery type that best meets both regulatory standards and consumer needs is likely to emerge as the mainstream choice. Consequently, the landscape of battery technologies will continue to evolve and optimize under the impetus of the new national standard.

(II) Adjustments in the Production and Sales Stages

1. Enterprise production standards have been raised.

Enterprises must design and manufacture lithium‑ion batteries for electric bicycles in accordance with the new national standards, strictly adhering to the relevant specifications across all parameters and production processes. For example, battery packs must feature mutual‑recognition and coordinated charging functionality—charging can only commence after the charger successfully establishes communication with the battery pack—thereby reducing safety risks associated with mismatched chargers. In addition, a unique identification code must be clearly marked on a prominent part of the battery pack; this code must include at least the manufacturer’s code and be a high‑temperature‑resistant, permanent marking capable of withstanding ( 950±10 ) °C High temperatures facilitate accident tracing and accountability. Moreover, products must obtain certification from third-party testing agencies before they can be marketed, which undoubtedly increases the complexity of compliance and raises production costs. This, in turn, compels companies to continuously upgrade their manufacturing technologies and management capabilities to meet the requirements of the new national standards and secure a competitive foothold in the market.

2. Inventory clearance pressure on dealerships

With GB42295 Taking relevant standards—such as those governing on-board chargers—as examples, with the implementation of the new national standard, numerous new regulations have imposed stricter requirements on electric bicycles and their components. Dealers are required to clear out inventory that fails to meet these new criteria within the prescribed timeframe. Previously, due to market competition and other factors, dealers had already accumulated a certain amount of excess stock. Now, in the face of the changes brought about by the new national standard, if this non‑compliant inventory is not promptly disposed of, it could place significant pressure on cash flow and increase operational risks for dealers. For instance, vehicles equipped with components that do not comply… GB43854-2024 Electric bicycles equipped with lithium-ion batteries that do not comply with the “Safety Technical Specifications for Lithium-Ion Batteries Used in Electric Bicycles” will no longer be permitted to be sold. Dealers are required to promptly implement measures—such as promotions and trade-in programs—to clear existing inventory and adapt to changes in sales.

3. Market reshuffling is accelerating.

The new national standard has raised the industry’s entry barriers. Smaller, workshop‑style enterprises and lesser‑known manufacturers lacking technical expertise and robust quality‑control systems will gradually be phased out because they cannot meet the required standards. These companies often fall short in production processes and product‑quality management, failing to comply with the stringent regulations governing electric bicycles and their batteries under the new standard. In contrast, well‑capitalized, established firms—leveraging their R&D capabilities, state‑of‑the‑art equipment, and comprehensive quality‑assurance systems—are better positioned to meet the requirements and gain market acceptance. As a result, industry resources will increasingly converge on these leading players, accelerating market consolidation and driving the entire electric‑bicycle sector toward greater standardization and higher quality.

(3) Impact on Consumer Use

1. Clearer product selection

When purchasing electric bicycles and batteries, consumers can refer to the new national standards to determine whether they comply with safety requirements. For example, they can examine the lithium‑ion battery’s nameplate, specification sheet, user manual, and other relevant documentation, or inquire with the seller and request the product’s corresponding Technical Specification test report or certification certificate, thereby verifying whether the lithium‑ion battery meets the required standards. GB43854 Standards. At the same time, for complete vehicles, consumers can refer to the new national standards regarding vehicle structure, performance, and other aspects to select products that meet safety requirements and are of reliable quality, thereby avoiding those with potential safety risks. This provides consumers with clearer criteria when making purchases, enabling them to make more confident and informed choices.

2. There are also battery-related safety concerns.

Although the new national standard imposes strict regulations on subsequently manufactured and sold products, consumers should also be aware that non‑compliant lithium batteries currently in their possession may still pose safety risks over the next two years. As lithium‑ion batteries age, their reliability and safety steadily decline, significantly increasing potential hazards. Many older lithium‑ion batteries suffer from prolonged service life, have been modified or repurposed, and are operated under poor environmental conditions and inadequate maintenance—leading to issues such as poor cell‑to‑cell consistency, minimal or no rigorous testing, and rudimentary or even absent battery management systems. These factors make them prone to safety incidents during charging and use. Therefore, consumers should replace such batteries with compliant ones in a timely manner to ensure their own safety.

III. Opportunities for the Electric Vehicle Industry

(1) Development Opportunities for Headquarter-Based Lithium-Ion Battery Enterprises

1. Capture market share

New National Standard GB43854 Its implementation undoubtedly presents a golden opportunity for leading lithium‑battery companies—those with substantial scale and strong market positions—to capture a larger share of the market. In the past, the market was flooded with substandard lithium‑battery products, with small, unregulated manufacturers exploiting low costs and competitive pricing to operate in a chaotic environment, thereby disrupting the normal order of the industry. By contrast, the new national standard serves as a stringent screening mechanism, effectively barring non‑compliant, inferior lithium‑battery products from entering the market.

2. Enhance brand influence

Leading lithium‑battery manufacturers have long prioritized product quality and brand building, and the implementation of the new national standard has provided them with a powerful opportunity to further enhance their brand influence. These companies rigorously adhere to the new standard in producing high‑quality lithium‑battery products, meticulously refining every stage—from raw‑material selection and process control to final‑product testing—ensuring that their offerings not only meet regulatory requirements but also significantly exceed industry benchmarks in both performance and safety.

(II) Technology Innovation and R&D-Driven Growth

1. Battery Technology Upgrade

To meet the new national standard GB43854 In response to stringent requirements, numerous lithium‑battery manufacturers have ramped up their R&D investments, striving to achieve breakthroughs and upgrades in battery technology. To enhance energy density, companies are continuously exploring novel electrode materials and advanced battery PACK architectures, aiming to enable batteries of the same size to store more energy and thereby extend the range of electric bicycles. For instance, some firms have conducted in‑depth research on lithium manganese oxide batteries and lithium iron phosphate batteries, optimizing their internal chemical compositions and microstructures to significantly boost energy density.

Meanwhile, in extending Battery PACK There have also been numerous innovative measures to extend the safe service life of batteries. By refining the electrolyte formulation, enhancing the stability of both the positive and negative electrode materials, and strengthening the battery management system, companies are able to slow down performance degradation during use, mitigate safety risks, and ensure that batteries maintain reliable performance and safety over an extended service life. For example, the development of real-time, high-precision battery‑state monitoring systems enables rigorous control of charging and discharging processes, preventing overcharging and deep discharging. This effectively prolongs the overall lifespan of the battery and drives continuous advancements in battery technology across the industry.

2. Supporting technology follow-up

The new national standard sets forth comprehensive requirements covering electrical safety of electric bicycles, charger safety, and related areas, prompting both complete‑vehicle manufacturers and component suppliers to refine and innovate across multiple supporting technologies, thereby expanding their market‑driving potential. With respect to vehicle voltage levels, companies are redesigning and optimizing the electrical systems of electric bicycles in accordance with the standard, ensuring proper voltage compatibility and stability to prevent safety incidents caused by voltage‑related issues.

To meet the requirement for traceability codes on chargers, companies have adopted advanced coding technologies and information‑management systems to assign a unique traceability code to each charger. This enables end‑to‑end tracking of the charger’s production, sales, and usage stages, allowing rapid identification of the source of any issues and the implementation of appropriate corrective measures. For instance, some manufacturers have developed smart chargers that not only feature traceability coding but also enable intelligent matching and coordinated charging with battery packs—charging commences only after the charger and battery pack have successfully established communication. This significantly reduces the safety risks associated with mismatched chargers and enhances the user experience, while also creating greater market opportunities for these companies in the related ancillary‑products segment.

(III) Industry Standardization and Sustainable Development

1. Regulate market order

New National Standard GB43854 One of the most significant changes brought about by the full implementation of [the policy/standard] is that the electric bicycle industry has become far more standardized and orderly across all stages—production, sales, and use. In the past, the lack of unified, stringent standards led to uneven manufacturing practices, widespread sales irregularities, and frequent instances of cutthroat competition, all of which severely undermined the industry’s healthy development and jeopardized consumers’ rights and interests.

Today, from the production standpoint, companies are required to design and manufacture in accordance with the new national standards; products that fail to meet these standards cannot be placed on the market. At the sales stage, distributors may only sell electric bicycles and related components that comply with the standards, and any inventory of non‑compliant items must be promptly cleared. This ensures effective quality control in the marketplace. For example, law enforcement agencies can use these standards to inspect the retail market and offline… “ Custom Lithium Batteries ”  By bringing such irregularities under control, we can prevent the emergence of substandard products. This well‑regulated and orderly market environment curtails cutthroat competition, enabling companies to compete on the basis of product quality and technological prowess in a fair playing field, thereby fostering the industry’s steady progress toward high quality and sustainable development.

2. Expand export advantages

As China’s electric bicycle industry has achieved standardized development in accordance with the new national standards, the competitiveness of high‑standard electric bicycles and related products in the international market has been significantly enhanced, creating favorable conditions for expanding export business. International markets are imposing increasingly stringent requirements on the safety, quality, and other aspects of electric bicycle products, and Chinese products that comply with the new national standards enjoy clear advantages in these areas.

Electric bicycles manufactured by domestic companies, thanks to their high‑quality lithium‑ion batteries, rigorous production processes, and robust safety‑assurance systems, are more likely to win the recognition and trust of international customers. For instance, some firms that have already established strong brand reputations at home by complying with the new national standards have seen their products gain favor among local consumers in Europe, Southeast Asia, and other regions, leading to steadily growing order volumes. This not only helps these companies expand their overseas market share and enhance the industry’s global influence but also drives the entire sector forward.