China Cuts Automakers a Break on New Emission Rules

China granted a six-month grace period for carmakers and dealers to sell off as many as 2 million new vehicles that will be out of compliance with new emission standards taking effect July 1.

The move is intended to ease pressure on the auto market amid slowing sales and a brutal price war. The government said it will allow sales of vehicles produced under the old pollution standards to continue until Dec. 31, though automakers will have to apply more stringent requirements to newly built autos starting July 1.