US investigates Chinese automakers over national security concerns
The US government is currently investigating whether the recent influx of Chinese cars into Western markets will be a threat to national security.
The US Department of Commerce launched the investigation due to concerns about “connected vehicles” coming from China and other countries of interest, in light of modern vehicles increasingly using advanced technology, which connects to personal devices that contain personal data.
Chinese car manufacturers such as Build Your Dreams (BYD), Ineos and MG are increasingly gaining presence in Western markets due to their hugely cheap prices and value for money.
“Cars are increasingly leveraging advanced technologies to enable navigation tools, provide driver-assist features, and reduce operating costs and carbon emissions through fast, efficient charging,” a White House press release says.
“These cars are constantly connecting with personal devices, other cars, American infrastructure, and their original manufacturer.
“New vulnerabilities and threats could arise with connected cars if a foreign government were to gain access to the systems or data of these vehicles.
“Connected vehicles collect large amounts of sensitive data about their drivers and passengers; they regularly use their cameras and sensors to record detailed information about American infrastructure; interact directly with critical infrastructure; and can be piloted or deactivated remotely.”
The collection of sensitive data by foreign automakers could pose a risk to U.S. national security if the information reaches the governments of countries of interest.
China is of particular concern due to Article 7 of Chinese intelligence lawwhich compels Chinese organizations, agencies, individuals and other parties to support domestic intelligence efforts, which could mean providing data they have collected from international operations, such as data collected from cars. Article 14 requires the parties to cooperate.
The new US government investigation will assess national security risks posed by foreign automakers, and the Commerce Department will issue an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM).
“As part of the investigation, the Department of Commerce will gather information from the industry and the public about the nature of these risks and possible measures that could be taken to mitigate them,” the statement added.
“The Department of Commerce intends to use this information to help inform and define potential regulations governing the use of technology in vehicles in certain countries.”
Stakeholders from automakers of interest are encouraged to contact the Department of Commerce with their comments.
“The department will consult closely with industry, U.S. allies and partners, and other stakeholders throughout the regulatory process to ensure that any action maximally protects U.S. national security while minimizing unintended consequences or disruptions.” “, said.
