China has moved to strict digital oversight of batteries. As of April 1, 2026, the national platform for tracking the lifecycle of new energy vehicles (NEV) batteries officially launched in the country.
The system, developed under the auspices of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of China (MIIT), underwent a three-month testing period and has now become mandatory for all manufacturers. Each traction battery receives a unique digital identifier — a kind of passport that accompanies it from production to recycling.
Battery module. Source: CarNewsChina
From factory to recycling: how it works
The platform integrates data across the entire supply chain. Battery manufacturers, car factories, importers, service centers, and even operators of rapid battery replacement stations are obligated to input information in real time. The system records each key event: production, car sales, maintenance, battery replacement, and eventually, its disposal.
This approach creates a closed-loop mechanism. The state can see where a specific battery unit is and who is responsible for it at any given moment. This helps prevent situations where used elements end up in unregulated recycling channels, often accompanied by environmental pollution and fire risks due to improper handling.
Environmental footprint and "gray" market
The launch of the platform is part of a broader strategy. Starting this year, China requires reporting on the carbon footprint of batteries, which includes data on emissions during raw material extraction, component production, and logistics. The centralized system enables authorities to analyze organizational responsibility and detect anomalies in component circulation.
Recycling of old batteries. Photo: CarNewsChina
Technical support and system operation are provided by the China Automotive Technology and Research Center (CATARC). At the presentation in Tianjin, it was noted that over 500 organizations are already connected to the system, including international institutions and industry associations.
