No, underglow lighting is prohibited in China under the Road Traffic Safety Law and GB 7258-2017 standards, which classify such modifications as altering vehicle lighting systems. The Ministry of Public Security (MPS) enforces these rules, citing safety risks and potential confusion with official emergency lighting. Recent 2026 draft amendments to GB 15766.1-202X further tighten compliance, explicitly banning aftermarket underglow installations.
Key Regulations for Underglow Lighting in China
- Road Traffic Safety Law (2021 Amendment): Article 16 mandates that vehicle lighting must comply with national standards, with unauthorized modifications punishable by fines or vehicle impoundment.
- GB 7258-2017 (Technical Conditions for Safety of Motor Vehicles): Section 4.6.12 prohibits non-standard lighting, including underglow, as it may impair visibility or mislead other drivers.
- Local MPS Enforcement Directives: Provincial traffic authorities, such as Beijing’s Traffic Management Bureau, conduct routine inspections targeting vehicles with non-compliant lighting, often during annual safety campaigns.
Compliance risks escalate for imported vehicles, as customs inspections under GB/T 38955-2020 may reject shipments with pre-installed underglow systems. Exemptions exist for off-road vehicles in designated areas, but these require prior approval from local traffic authorities. Non-compliance typically results in fines up to ¥200 (2024 threshold) and mandatory removal of offending modifications.