2026 New Energy Vehicle Safety Inspection Launched, Smart Driving Features Under Scrutiny for First Time

On May 29, 2026, the Equipment Industry Development Center of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology issued a notice officially launching a safety hazard inspection campaign for new energy vehicles (NEVs). Affected automakers and power battery manufacturers are required to complete comprehensive self-inspections and rectifications across all vehicle models and submit relevant documentation by August 1. The inspection covers five key areas: product quality, intelligent driving functions, operational monitoring, after-sales maintenance, and safety management systems. Particular attention will be paid to potential risks associated with power batteries, high-voltage systems, cooling systems, and performance under extreme operating conditions. For the first time, the safety of intelligent driving functions has been designated as a regulatory priority, with a focus on risks such as sensor and decision-making system failures and user misuse. The notice stipulates that if three or more fire or combustion incidents occur in the same vehicle model, the manufacturer must conduct an in-depth, targeted investigation to precisely identify root causes and implement corrective actions item by item. Companies that fail to rectify issues on time, conceal safety hazards, or submit false documentation will face tiered penalties—including regulatory interviews and public notifications—depending on the severity of the violation. In serious cases, the authorities may legally revoke the affected vehicle model’s product approval. According to data, over 2.65 million NEVs were recalled in 2025, accounting for nearly 40% of all vehicle recalls that year, including more than 22,000 units recalled specifically due to power battery safety hazards. In the first half of 2026 alone, over 120 NEV safety incidents were publicly reported, 37 of which involved intelligent driving systems—a 35% year-on-year increase.