China requires NEV firms to report accidents within 12 hours

(ECNS) -- China's State Administration for Market Regulation issued a directive on Tuesday to further regulate accident reports on new-energy vehicles.

Car makers or dealers should report to the quality and development bureau of the State Administration for Market Regulation within 12 hours once the new energy vehicle they manufactured, sell or imported emits smoke or catches fire, according to the new directive released on Wednesday.

Companies should also report accidents to the bureau in less than six hours when it involves casualties or brings about serious social consequences, said the new regulation.

It further requires car makers keep a vehicle that catches fire intact for further analysis and investigation. If a type of car is prone to a fire hazard, producers are required to implement a recall as soon as possible. 

The bureau will work with experts to evaluate new energy cars involved in accidents, then undertake risk analysis and issue warnings to buyers if necessary, said the directive.