China's State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) approved the GB 1589-2026 standard, which introduces size exemptions for sensors and communication hardware. This allows for easier installation of radars, cameras, and V2X antennas used in autonomous driving and vehicle-road coordination.
The rules also benefit commercial new energy vehicles (NEVs) by increasing the maximum permissible axle load for single tires from 7,000 to 8,000 kilograms to manage battery weight. Additionally, length limits for articulated vehicles with 45-foot containers will increase from 17.1 to 17.3 meters.
The standard will be phased in starting July 1, 2027. New type approval models must comply by this date, while existing models will transition to the new rules by January 1, 2028.
