The Biden administration has introduced a plan to ban Chinese software and certain hardware from internet-connected cars in the U.S., citing national security concerns. Officials claim that this software poses “new threats to our national security, including through our supply chains.”
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This reasoning echoes a recent ban on telecommunications equipment from Chinese companies Huawei and ZTE, where evidence suggested Huawei’s involvement in China’s surveillance efforts. The administration warns that China “could use critical technologies” in connected vehicles “within our supply chains for surveillance and sabotage to undermine national security.”
The newly proposed rules extend beyond software, covering hardware that connects vehicles to external networks, such as Bluetooth, cellular, Wi-Fi, and satellite components, as well as cameras, sensors, and onboard computers. The software ban would apply starting with the 2027 model year, while the hardware restrictions would take effect in 2030.
The ban also includes Russian automotive software. Although Russia has a developing electric vehicle (EV) industry, it primarily serves domestic markets. Unlike China, whose low-cost EVs from companies like BYD are in global demand, Russia lacks such international appeal.
A significant outcome of this ban is that it would effectively block Chinese auto imports to the U.S. Since connectivity features, including software and hardware, are integral to modern vehicles, compliance with the ban would be almost impossible. Combined with tariffs already in place, this restriction would make importing Chinese vehicles nearly unfeasible.
Despite the economic implications, officials insist this is purely a national security measure, not a trade barrier against affordable EVs. “Connected vehicles and the technology they use bring new vulnerabilities, especially when developed in the P.R.C. [People’s Republic of China] and other countries of concern,” said Jake Sullivan, President Biden’s national security adviser.
Sullivan also referenced “Volt Typhoon,” an alleged Chinese program to infiltrate U.S. infrastructure systems. Officials fear such efforts could disrupt U.S. military operations in the event of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan.
