China investigates 53 entities over non-standard electric bicycles
Authorities in Taizhou, Zhejiang province, have launched investigations into 53 entities involved in the production and sale of non-standard electric bicycles following a central government probe. Production lines have been seized.
Chinese authorities have initiated investigations into 53 entities in Taizhou, Zhejiang province, concerning the production and sale of non-standard electric bicycles. Following exposure by national media, the provincial task force found that production lines of implicated companies have been sealed and local authorities have opened investigations.
The crackdown follows a report by CCTV which highlighted how some manufacturers in Taizhou circumvented national safety standards. At Zhejiang Drill Leopard Electric Vehicle Co., Ltd., production lines were found to be suspended and some vehicles impounded. The company's chairman acknowledged primary responsibility for management failures and pledged to comply with regulations.
Local officials stated that after the exposure, market supervision and traffic management departments collaborated to inspect manufacturers and retailers across the region. Over 8,000 suspected illegally modified vehicles have been investigated, leading to 58 cases being filed. Taizhou is also drafting an action plan to promote high-quality development in the electric bicycle industry.
New national safety standards for electric bicycles (GB 17761—2024) will take effect on September 1, 2025. Vehicles produced under the old standards will have a grace period for sales until November 30, 2025. After this date, all electric bicycles sold must comply with the new regulations, which cover aspects such as fire safety, materials, battery and motor performance, and data security features.