Introduction
China’s electric vehicle policy just raised the bar: from January 2026 onward, all plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) sold in China will be required to deliver a minimum pure electric range of 100 km (≈ 62 miles). This bold move, featured in the video PHEV EV Range Game-Changer: China Sets Electric-Only Range Floor, signals a shift in how hybrid vehicles are regulated and developed. In this post, we break down what the regulation entails, how automakers are reacting, and what it could mean for the EV landscape everywhere.
What’s New: The 62-Mile Minimum Rule
- The Chinese government has updated its performance standards for “new energy vehicles,” specifically targeting PHEVs. Under the new regulation, every PHEV must be capable of 100 km (≈ 62 miles) on electric power alone to be eligible for subsidies and preferential treatment.
- The previous requirement was only 43 km (≈ 27 miles) of electric range—meaning this is a substantial uplift in expectations.
- In addition to the electric-only floor, there are stricter rules about fuel consumption when the vehicle is operating in hybrid (gas + electric) mode.
- The rule takes effect starting January 1, 2026, and automakers must comply by mid-December for regulatory paperwork.
Why China Is Doing This
Encourage Real Electrification
One of the criticisms of PHEVs is that manufacturers sometimes design them just enough to qualify for subsidies, with minimal electric range, pushing them to rely heavily on combustion engines. China’s new rule forces stronger electrification components, making PHEVs more “electric” and less of a sham
Drive R&D & Innovation
Automakers will need to invest more in battery tech, power electronics, and efficient systems, raising the bar across the industry.
Boost Electrified Driving
A larger electric range encourages real-world electric driving (i.e. daily commutes) rather than relying on the gas engine. Over time, this could accelerate the transition to full EVs.
Regulate Fuel Efficiency
By strengthening requirements for hybrid mode efficiency, China aims to limit the fuel consumption when the combustion engine is in use.
Challenges & Impacts on Automakers
For Domestic Brands
Some Chinese automakers—including BYD, Geely, and Lynk & Co—already offer PHEVs that meet or approach the 100 km electric range. The regulation may require only incremental improvements for many of them.
For International Brands
Foreign automakers selling PHEVs in China might need to reengineer existing models to meet the range requirement. Failing to comply could lead them to withdraw PHEV offerings altogether in China.
Certification & Time Pressure
With a relatively tight timeline (regulation effective in early 2026, paperwork due mid-December), automakers have limited time for development, testing, and compliance.
Potential Market Shifts
Some brands may drop PHEVs in China, pushing further toward fully electric vehicles (BEVs) or pure hybrid models.
Global Ramifications
Template for Other Markets
China’s new standard could inspire other countries to tighten PHEV regulations. Especially as governments around the world aim to cut emissions, this could become a benchmark.
PHEV Product Strategy Shift
Manufacturers may redesign PHEVs to prioritize electric range or shift more investment toward full battery EVs (BEVs) over plug-in hybrids.
Competitive Edge for Strong Players
Companies that already have efficient EV / PHEV architectures will find it easier to adapt, potentially gaining an edge in regulatory compliance and cost efficiencies.
Conclusion
China’s decision to mandate a 62-mile (100 km) pure electric range for PHEVs is more than a regulatory tweak—it’s a strategic push toward true electrification. It is likely to accelerate innovation, reshape PHEV product portfolios, and ripple outward into global automotive policy. For manufacturers, adapting is nonnegotiable. For consumers and EV enthusiasts, it’s an exciting turning point in the evolution of hybrid and electric mobility
