2014-2015 Energy Saving and Low Carbon Development Action Plan

In the 2014-2015 Energy Saving and Low Carbon Development Action Plan issued by the State Council General Office lately, it is stated that the task of eliminating yellow label vehicles and old cars will be carried out in all 31 provinces (regions, municipalities) across the country in 2014. According to the action plan, the State Council has set the target that a total of six million yellow label vehicles and ageing cars will be eliminated in 2014. Of which, 2.43 million such vehicles will be taken off the road in seven provinces and cities in key regions including Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei, Yangtze River Delta and Pearl River Delta, accounting for 40.5% of the total; while the remaining 3.57 million such vehicles will be taken off the road in 24 provinces (regions, cities) in non key regions, accounting for 59.5% of the total.

Yellow label vehicles refer to petrol vehicles with emissions levels lower than National Standard I and diesel vehicles with emissions levels lower than National Standard III. Old cars refer to vehicles which have been in use for a long time and running at a poor pollution control level. As of the end of 2013, there were altogether more than 13 million yellow label vehicles across the country, accounting for about 10% of total car ownership. The pollutants emitted by these vehicles accounted for about 50% of total pollutant emissions by automobiles. Therefore, quickening the pace of eliminating yellow label vehicles and old cars is an important measure for improving the quality of air in cities.

To complete the task of eliminating yellow label vehicles and old cars, all localities must strengthen policy guidance and introduce incentive policies encouraging the early phase-out of yellow label vehicles and old cars. Action must be taken to further strengthen law enforcement, designating restricted and prohibited zones for yellow label vehicles. Vehicles meeting the standards set out in the Provisions on Mandatory Retirement Standards of Motor Vehicles must retire on a mandatory basis. Testing and inspection organisations engaging in non-compliant acts will be subject to investigation and punishment.