The United States government is actively working to prevent the integration of Chinese and Russian connected car technologies within the country, signaling a proactive approach to national security.
A new rule is under consideration that specifically targets automated driving technology and connectivity systems found in modern vehicles. These include technologies such as Bluetooth, cellular data, satellite communications, and Wi-Fi. The core concern of the government revolves around the potential for these technologies to be exploited for surveillance of critical infrastructure, as well as the possibility of disrupting essential services.
This initiative is the latest in a series of actions taken by the Biden Administration aimed at Chinese automakers and technology companies. As the White House has explained, “Chinese automakers are seeking to dominate connected vehicle technologies in the United States and globally, posing new threats to our national security, including through our supply chains.”
To address this perceived threat, the Department of Commerce has put forth a new rule. The rule aims to “prohibit the sale or import of connected vehicles that incorporate certain technology and the import of particular components themselves from countries of concern, specifically the People’s Republic of China and Russia.” The primary focus of the rule is China. The government is especially concerned about possible security risks stemming from the fact that connected vehicles “collect sensitive driver and passenger data” and are equipped with cameras and sensors capable of “record[ing] detailed information about American infrastructure.”
The White House further noted that information obtained by connected cars could, potentially, be used by adversaries to disrupt infrastructure or even the vehicles themselves. The government has additionally identified specific technologies deployed in connected vehicles from China and Russia that “are particularly acute threats.”
The proposed rule targets connected vehicle systems that are designed, developed, manufactured, or supplied by entities closely associated with either China or Russia. It also focuses on vehicle connectivity systems (VCS), including Bluetooth, cellular, satellite, and Wi-Fi, alongside automated driving systems (ADS). The rule outlines “restrictions on imports or sales of connected vehicles” that utilize these technologies. It also covers the import of associated VCS hardware.
However, recognizing potential impacts, the proposal does allow for exemptions for smaller automakers, but only on an “exceptional basis.” If the rule is implemented as currently envisioned, the restrictions on the software would come into effect for the 2027 model year. Hardware restrictions would be implemented for the 2030 model year, or by January 1, 2029, for vehicles without a model year designation.
The government has stated that while the specifics of the regulation are still undergoing finalization, the Department of Commerce would collaborate closely with “industry, U.S. allies and partners, and other stakeholders throughout the regulatory process to ensure any actions maximally protect U.S. national security, while minimizing unintended consequences or disruptions.”
