The White House announced on Thursday that the United States is launching an investigation into whether Chinese vehicle imports could pose national security risks. The investigation by the U.S. Commerce Department comes amid concerns about “connected” car technology, which could potentially allow Chinese-assembled smart vehicles to collect sensitive data about U.S. citizens and infrastructure and transmit it to China.
President Joe Biden stated, “Chinaās policies could flood our market with its vehicles, posing risks to our national security. Iām not going to let that happen on my watch.” However, White House officials emphasized that it is too early to determine what actions might be taken, including any potential ban or restrictions on connected Chinese vehicles.
Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo noted, “The administration is taking action before Chinese-manufactured vehicles become widespread in the United States and potentially threaten our privacy and national security.” Currently, there are relatively few Chinese-made light duty vehicles being imported into the United States.
The White House also stated that threats could arise because vehicles “collect large amounts of sensitive data on their drivers and passengers (and) regularly use their cameras and sensors to record detailed information on U.S. infrastructure.” The investigation will also consider autonomous vehicles.
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The Commerce Department will seek comments for 60 days on the potential risks of Chinese connected vehicles and then consider drafting regulations to address concerns. The notice released on Thursday also seeks details about current U.S.-assembled vehicles, including where automakers license software.
Biden’s directive comes as the Biden administration is considering imposing new tariffs on Chinese-made vehicles and facing pressure to restrict Chinese electric vehicle imports from Mexico. The Chinese Embassy in Washington has criticized the proposals, urging the U.S. to “stop hyping up the ‘China threat’ theory and its unwarranted suppression of Chinese companies.”
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In recent years, China has strengthened its oversight over data management within the country, requiring most industries to store data generated locally and apply for permission before it can be transferred abroad. The White House pointed out that China imposes significant restrictions on U.S. autos and other foreign autos operating in China, questioning why connected vehicles from China should be allowed to operate in the U.S. without safeguards.
