An Analysis of the Types and Applicable Standards for Two-Wheeled Electric Vehicles




I. Introduction

In today’s mobility landscape, two-wheeled electric vehicles have become a ubiquitous sight. Whether amid the bustling traffic of metropolitan centers or winding through the quiet streets of small towns, their compact and agile forms are everywhere. During the morning commute, riders effortlessly weave through congested roads on their e‑bikes, sidestepping traffic jams and arriving at work on time. Around campuses, students zip about on vibrantly colored e‑bikes, their laughter and chatter brimming with youthful energy. And in everyday life, these bikes serve as indispensable companions for convenient shopping and short‑distance travel, carrying people as they navigate the rhythms of daily routines. Next, We will jointly explore the types of two-wheeled electric vehicles, as well as their applicable standards and certification requirements.

II. Types of Two-Wheeled Electric Vehicles

(1) Standard Electric Bicycles: Convenient Green Commuters

The standard electric bicycle, an important member of the non-motorized vehicle family, is widely favored by consumers for its unique advantages. Its most distinctive feature is its ability to be pedaled—this not only sets it apart from motorized vehicles but also serves as a reliable backup when the battery runs out or the bike experiences an unexpected malfunction. Emergency treasure , allowing riders to effortlessly switch to human-powered mode, eliminating the hassle and inconvenience of pushing the bike.

In terms of speed, standard electric bicycles strictly comply with regulations: when driven by electric power, the maximum design speed shall not exceed 25 Kilometers per hour—this speed limit takes into account both cycling safety and the orderly flow of non-motorized traffic, effectively reducing the risk of traffic accidents. Meanwhile, the vehicle’s total mass is less than or equal to… 55  The weight limit of kilograms makes the vehicle more agile and nimble, allowing it to navigate narrow alleyways with ease and park effortlessly in crowded parking garages. Meanwhile, the battery’s nominal voltage is less than or equal to 48V The requirements further ensure the stability and safety of the electrical system.

(2) Lightweight Electric Motorcycles: A Powerful Tool for Urban Commuting

Lightweight electric motorcycles are classified as motor vehicles, and compared with standard electric bicycles, they offer significantly improved performance. The maximum design speed does not exceed 50 km/h , the total rated power of the motors shall not exceed 4kw With this configuration, it can swiftly and nimbly navigate urban roads, easily handling the congestion of morning and evening rush hours.

Compared with standard electric bicycles, lightweight electric motorcycles eliminate the pedal‑assisted riding feature, boast a more streamlined design, and have relatively larger dimensions, offering riders a more spacious and comfortable riding experience. However, due to their classification as motorized vehicles, operating a lightweight electric motorcycle requires holding a… D And E or F A driver’s license is required, and carrying passengers is strictly prohibited to ensure driving safety.

(3) Standard Electric Motorcycles: Powerful Companions for Your Journeys

Ordinary electric motorcycles stand out for their powerful performance, with a maximum design speed exceeding 50 km/h , the total rated power of the motors exceeds 4kw With such robust power, whether climbing hills, overtaking, or cruising long distances, it handles every situation with ease and confidence.

Thanks to its powerful motor, a standard electric motorcycle features a sturdier frame and greater load‑carrying capacity, enabling it to handle a wide range of challenging road conditions. However, this also means the vehicle is heavier and larger in size, requiring more advanced riding skills. Moreover, as a motorized vehicle, operating a standard electric motorcycle mandates that the rider hold a valid license. D or And E Driver’s license; one passenger may be carried in the vehicle. 12  Individuals aged [age] and above must strictly abide by traffic regulations for motor vehicles, wear safety helmets, and drive in the designated lanes.

III. Implementation Standards: The Cornerstone of Safety and Compliance

(1) Enforcement regarding electric bicycles Standard

For standard electric bicycles, There are three implementation standards: first, Its production, sale, and use must strictly comply with the “Safety Technical Specifications for Electric Bicycles” ( GB 17761 - 2018 ) This national standard. This standard was issued on 2019  Year month 15  Effective from today, the regulation explicitly stipulates that electric bicycles must be equipped with pedal-assist functionality, with a maximum speed of ≤ 25km/h , motor power ≤ 400w , battery voltage ≤ 48v , vehicle mass ≤ 55kg In addition, it has incorporated technical requirements for tamper resistance, fire protection, flame retardancy, and charger protection; this standard is commonly referred to as the “old national standard.”

According to 2024 year 11 month 1 The new national standard, which came into effect on [date], introduces two additional implementation criteria: first, GB 42295-2022 “Electrical Safety Requirements for Electric Bicycles” and Part 1 Amendment No. ; secondly, GB 42296-2022 “Safety Technical Requirements for Chargers Used in Electric Bicycles” and the …th amendment 1 Amendment No. X, which establishes clear specifications for standard‑compliant chargers.

Regarding batteries, electric bicycles that use lithium-ion batteries are subject to the following battery standards: GB 43854 2024 “Safety Technical Specification for Lithium-Ion Batteries Used in Electric Bicycles.” This standard not only specifies the safety requirements for individual lithium-ion battery cells used in electric bicycles but also establishes product safety entry thresholds for battery packs across seven aspects: electrical safety, mechanical safety, environmental safety, thermal runaway, interoperable and coordinated charging, data acquisition, and labeling. It stipulates… The test items for a single battery cell include marking, overcharge, overdischarge, external short circuit, thermal abuse, and nail penetration; as well as 22  The test items for the battery pack include marking, electrostatic discharge, over-discharge, overcharge, thermal protection, and external short circuit, among others.

The above, new and old Standardization Like a precise measuring tool, it comprehensively assesses every critical performance parameter of electric bicycles. From the vehicle’s mechanical and electrical safety to its fire‑resistance and flame‑retardant properties, as well as its radio‑interference characteristics and the detailed requirements for the user manual, no aspect is overlooked—each is subject to clear, stringent specifications. For instance, in terms of electrical safety, meticulous standards are established for battery charge‑discharge protection and circuit insulation, helping to prevent hazards such as short circuits and electrical leakage; meanwhile, regulations on fire‑resistance and flame retardancy effectively reduce the risk of vehicle fires, thereby safeguarding riders’ lives and property.

(2) Electric motorcycles and electric mopeds The Code of Conduct

Electric motorcycles and electric mopeds Also classified as a motor vehicle, There are two applicable standards, one of which is the “General Technical Specifications for Electric Motorcycles and Electric Mopeds” ( GB/T 24158-2018 ), which specifies the model designation, technical requirements, and test methods for electric motorcycles and electric mopeds; secondly, “Technical Conditions for the Safe Operation of Motor Vehicles” ( GB 7258 - 2017 ) This standard sets forth meticulous technical requirements and stringent test methods for all critical aspects of motor vehicles, including the complete vehicle and its major assemblies, safety protection devices, operating materials, and environmental performance.

In terms of batteries, the current standards for these two vehicle models are: GB/T 36672-2018 “Lithium-Ion Batteries for Electric Motorcycles and Electric Mopeds”: This standard specifies the module types, battery system requirements, test methods, labeling, packaging, transportation, and storage for lithium-ion batteries used in electric motorcycles and electric mopeds.

Taking speed metrics as an example, Electric moped The maximum design speed shall not exceed 50 km/h , the maximum design speed of the electric motorcycle exceeds 50km/h This clear distinction renders the two categories fundamentally different in terms of road‑use permissions, driver qualification requirements, and other aspects. In terms of power performance, the total rated power of the electric motor in an electric moped does not exceed 4kw , the total rated power of the electric motorcycle motors exceeds 4kw Different power settings are tailored to meet the demands of various use cases, excelling in everything from everyday urban commuting to long-distance hauls and heavy‑load transportation.

Meanwhile, manufacturers must hold the requisite motorcycle production qualifications, and their products must also be listed in the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology’s “Announcement on Road Motor Vehicle Manufacturers and Products.” This announcement serves as a kind of vehicle registration… Birth permit Only vehicles listed on this announcement are legally authorized to be manufactured, sold, and registered. Every compliant electric moped or electric motorcycle has been rigorously inspected and regulated to ensure safe operation within the motor vehicle realm.

IV. Certification Standards: A Guarantee of Quality

(1) 3C Certification: A valid quality passport

3C Certification, officially known as China Compulsory Product Certification, is a critical component of quality assurance for two-wheeled electric vehicles. It covers three major categories—electric bicycles, electric mopeds, and electric motorcycles—as well as key components such as batteries, motors, and chargers. The certification process is rigorous and meticulous: it begins with type‑testing, in which professional laboratories simulate a wide range of extreme environments and operating conditions to comprehensively evaluate the vehicle’s performance metrics, ensuring stable operation under high‑temperature, low‑temperature, and humid conditions. This is followed by an initial factory inspection, during which auditors conduct a thorough review of the manufacturer’s quality management system, production equipment, and manufacturing processes, confirming that every vehicle leaving the assembly line maintains strict conformity with the tested sample. Post‑certification supervision further ensures ongoing compliance throughout the entire lifecycle. Keep a close watch on , conduct unscheduled spot checks of market products to prevent a decline in product quality.

For consumers, 3C The certification mark is used to determine whether a product meets the required standards. Sharp-eyed and discerning When purchasing a vehicle, be sure to check whether the vehicle and its key components bear the required labels. 3C For certification marks, you can also visit the official website of the CNCA and enter the certification number to verify its authenticity, ensuring that the vehicle you purchase has undergone proper certification and meets reliable quality standards.

(2) Production Qualification Certification: The Entry Barrier for Enterprises

Production qualification certification ensures that two-wheeled electric vehicle manufacturers operate legally. Birth permit

For electric bicycle manufacturers, a series of technical, managerial, and environmental requirements must be met, including possessing independent product design capabilities, maintaining a robust quality‑control system, and complying with environmental emission standards, thereby ensuring reliable assurance throughout the entire lifecycle—from initial design to final product release.

And electric mopeds of the Electric motorcycle manufacturers, in addition to meeting basic requirements, must also hold motorcycle production qualifications, and their products must be listed in the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology’s “Announcement on Road Motor Vehicle Manufacturers and Products.” This certification not only demands that companies possess strong R&D capabilities and advanced manufacturing processes, but also requires ensuring product consistency and stability throughout mass production, thereby providing consumers with motorized vehicles that deliver reliable performance and robust safety. When making a purchase, paying attention to a brand’s production credentials is like adding an extra layer of assurance to your journey. Safety lock