Policy-Driven and Standardization Research on Quality Management in the New Energy Vehicle Battery Supply Chain: An Empirical Analysis Based on Policy Comparison among China, the EU, and the US

Under the impetus of global carbon neutrality goals, quality management in the new energy vehicle (NEV) battery supply chain has become a central focus of national policy agendas. This study systematically analyzes policy documents and industry data from China, the European Union, and the United States between 2015 and 2024, with emphasis on three aspects. First, regarding differences in policy instruments: Chinas mandatory coding and traceability system (GB/T34014) has reduced defect recall rates by 32%; the EUs market-oriented carbon footprint labeling scheme under the New Battery Regulation increased compliance costs by 15% but reduced accident rates by 28%; and U.S. state-level legislation (e.g., Californias AB-2832) requiring ESG disclosure has influenced corporate quality practices. Second, concerning the dilemma of lagging standards: emerging technologies such as fast charging and solid-state batteries lack internationally unified standards, compelling firms to establish independent testing systems at a 40% higher cost (with CATL as a case example). Third, in terms of policy synergy and innovation: Guangdong Provinces traceability platform enables cross-departmental sharing of full life-cycle battery data, raising the efficiency of dispute resolution by 60%. This study advances three recommendations: (1) establish a dynamic standards framework combining basic national standards with technical consortium standards; (2) implement a dual-carbon assessment system for battery supply chain quality; and (3) strengthen mutual recognition of ChinaEU policies. The findings provide theoretical support for constructing a global governance framework for battery quality.