China to Mandate Status Screens and Enhanced Safety Features on All Power Banks
Following the massive scope of regulatory reform planned by MIIT, standards for portable battery packs will become progressively stricter. According to the new regulations, any power bank from manufacturing in China is required to have either an LCD or some means of displaying its status or have support for a mobile app that allows that power bank to be monitored in real time. The aims of these new measures are to counter the potential rise in the number of safety problems associated with portable chargers.
Dealing with Fire Hazard and Safety in Aviation
This anticipated regulatory change is precipitated by a dramatic rise in cases of overheating batteries and fires, principally while onboard an aircraft. The Chinese government has already applied stricter rules to air transport, wherein devices that do not pass the compulsory China Compulsory Certification (CCC) are currently banned. With the new standards, the threshold will be pushed higher for ensuring dependable transport and use on a day-to-day basis.
Stricter Technical Specifications
The new regulations will also subject manufacturers to stiffer stress tests. In addition to requiring visual status indicators, they include the following
- Temperature Resistance Power banks must withstand 135°C for one hour; a hike of 5°C from the previous standard of 130°C for 30 minutes
- Overvoltage Protection Devices must continue functioning when subjected to voltage spikes of 1.4 times the normal voltage
- Battery Puncture Tests Testing protocols for puncture resistance will become more complex
Impact on Manufacturers and Market Availability
Market consolidation will be huge on the back of these rules, with analysts estimating that around 70% of small manufacturers may disappear for an inability to bear the costs and technicalities prescribed by the new standards.
The big brands may find it easier to comply since most of their upscale models already incorporate screens and sophisticated energy management systems. Local reports advise that the regulations may enter full implementation by June 2026.
