US Commerce Department Proposes Ban On Chinese, Russian Smart Vehicle Tech

The Department of Commerce building is seen in Washington, DC

The US Commerce Department is set to propose a ban on the sale or import of smart vehicles utilizing specific Chinese or Russian technology due to national security concerns. A recent government investigation revealed potential risks from embedded software and hardware from these countries, including the threat of remote sabotage and data collection on drivers.

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo highlighted the possibility of foreign adversaries taking control of all vehicles in the US simultaneously, leading to crashes or road blockages. The proposed ban would not affect cars already in use with Chinese software but would apply to vehicles starting from model year 2027 for software and model year 2030 for hardware.

This regulatory action is part of a broader effort to secure future computing technology supply chains between the US and China. China's significant investments in the connected car market have raised concerns, especially with Chinese manufacturers making strides in Europe.

The proposed rule focuses on 'connected vehicles,' encompassing modern cars, buses, and trucks using network connections for various features. The Commerce Department plans to finalize the regulation before the end of the Biden administration, following a 30-day public comment period.

Concerns over potential risks of remote sabotage and data collection from embedded software and hardware.

US Commerce Department to propose ban on smart vehicles with Chinese or Russian tech.

Ban would not affect existing cars but apply to vehicles from model year 2027 for software and 2030 for hardware.

Raimondo emphasized that the move is driven by national security concerns rather than protectionism. The potential risks of data collection by foreign entities on American drivers and vulnerabilities in infrastructure like electric charging stations are key factors prompting the ban.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan warned of the increased risk of disruption and sabotage if vulnerable Chinese-made technology is widespread in US smart cars. China has denied allegations of embedding hackers in US infrastructure and called for a fair business environment for Chinese enterprises.

This ban follows previous actions by the Commerce Department, such as prohibiting products from Russian cybersecurity firm Kaspersky Lab. The department aims to protect US consumers from foreign-made software deemed national security threats.