Core Viewpoint - A regulatory storm is reshaping the future of the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) industry, with multiple departments introducing stringent policies aimed at enhancing safety and accountability in the sector [1][20]. Battery Safety - The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) issued the "Safety Requirements for Power Batteries for Electric Vehicles" (GB38031-2025), which will take effect on July 1, 2026. This regulation eliminates the previous 5-minute safety buffer for thermal runaway, mandating that batteries must not catch fire or explode throughout their lifespan [2][4]. - Leading companies must now pass more rigorous safety tests, including being struck by a 30mm steel ball with 150 joules of energy three times, and must remain safe after 300 fast charge cycles [4]. Intelligent Driving - The MIIT has mandated that automotive manufacturers must not exaggerate the capabilities of their advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and must ensure clear communication of system limitations [5][8]. - High-risk features such as valet parking and one-click summon are prohibited, and driver monitoring systems must utilize facial recognition and seat position sensors to ensure safe human-machine interaction [8]. Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates - The frequency of OTA updates is now subject to stricter regulations, requiring companies to manage risks and validate updates before deployment. Emergency OTA updates will require approval from the market regulatory authority [9][17]. - The shift from a rapid development model to a focus on quality is evident, as companies can no longer rely on frequent OTA updates to fix issues or enhance performance [17]. Door Handle Safety - The MIIT is developing mandatory national standards for car door handles, addressing safety concerns related to emergency exits and the potential for failure during accidents [18][19]. - The design of door handles is becoming a critical safety issue, with companies needing to balance innovation with safety requirements [19]. Industry Evolution - The tightening of regulations is fundamentally altering the survival logic of automotive companies. Leading firms like BYD are investing over 50 billion yuan in electrification and intelligent technology [20]. - The market landscape is shifting, particularly for vehicles priced below 100,000 yuan, which may struggle to incorporate advanced safety technologies due to cost constraints [20]. Conclusion - The regulatory changes signify a revolution in safety awareness within the EV industry, moving from a focus on performance metrics to a competitive landscape centered on safety [20].