As the government continues to tighten standards for average greenhouse gas emissions and average fuel economy, hybrid vehicles, which are relatively fuel-efficient, are growing in popularity. For example, the Hyundai Grandeur, which was named the best-selling car in South Korea in 2023, sold more hybrid models than internal combustion engine models. (Image courtesy of Hyundai Motor Group)
SEOUL, Jan. 8 (Korea Bizwire) – Beginning this year, South Korea is embarking on a comprehensive update to its automobile regulations, targeting both safety and environmental concerns. The Korea Automobile and Mobility Association (KAMA) unveiled these new guidelines on January 7, marking a significant shift in the nation’s approach to automotive regulation.
In an effort to mitigate environmental impact, the government has introduced regulations that ban the use of diesel vehicles in several key categories including school buses, delivery vehicles, and passenger transport services, although the rule is only applicable to vehicles purchased after the start of this year.
Further tightening its environmental standards, South Korea has also revised its annual benchmarks for vehicle fuel efficiency and emissions, raising the average fuel efficiency requirement for passenger cars from 24.4 kilometers per liter (km/L) to 25.2 km/L and lowering the target for greenhouse gas emissions from an average of 95 grams per kilometer to just 92 grams.
In terms of safety, new regulations coming into effect on December 1, 2024 will require all passenger vehicles with five seats or more to carry fire extinguishers, while the standards for fuel system integrity in case of rollovers are being enhanced. The government is also broadening the application of stringent safety tests, including pillar side-impact and fixed-wall frontal collision tests.
Addressing corporate vehicles, any car valued over 80 million won must now bear a green license plate. This regulation has been in effect since the beginning of the year.
In a move to ease the burden of fuel costs on lower-income groups, the government has extended the light car fuel tax refund until 2026. Owners of vehicles with an engine size under 1,000 cubic centimeters are now eligible for a refund of 250 won per liter of gasoline or diesel, with an annual cap set at 300,000 won.
Lastly, the planned conclusion of the fuel tax reduction at the end of last year has been postponed. This measure, initially set to expire, will now continue until February 29.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
