The Biden administration is looking to ban Chinese-made software from cars because of national security concerns, the Commerce Department announced on Monday.
The Bureau of Industry and Security, part of the Commerce Department, is expected to publish a rule that “focuses on hardware and software” of the software connected in cars and developed in China.
“Cars today have cameras, microphones, GPS tracking, and other technologies connected to the internet. It doesn’t take much imagination to understand how a foreign adversary with access to this information could pose a serious risk to both our national security and the privacy of U.S. citizens,” said Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. “To address these national security concerns, the Commerce Department is taking targeted, proactive steps to keep PRC and Russian-manufactured technologies off American roads.”
The software could be exploited by malicious Chinese actors, and in some cases “allow for external connectivity and autonomous driving capabilities in connected vehicles,” the Commerce Department said.
Gina Raimondo, U.S. Secretary of Commerce, speaks during the Democratic National Convention on Aug. 19, 2024, in Chicago.
Paul Sancya/AP
The proposed rule would apply to all wheeled on-road vehicles such as cars, trucks, and buses, but would exclude vehicles not used on public roads like agricultural or mining vehicles, and would start to take effect in 2027 models, and be fully integrated in 2030 models.
The rule also bans technology with a nexus to the PRC or Russia from selling connected vehicles that incorporate hardware or software in the United States, even if the vehicle was made in the United States.
This is the most recent step in the Biden administration’s economic actions against China.
Earlier this year, the Biden Administration increased tariff’s on steel and aluminum, semiconductors and electric vehicles.
The US government is currently weighing the possibility of banning Chinese software from cars over national security concerns. This move comes as tensions between the US and China continue to escalate, particularly in the realm of technology and cybersecurity.
The concern stems from the potential for Chinese software to be used as a tool for espionage or cyberattacks. With the increasing integration of technology in modern vehicles, there is a growing fear that Chinese software could be used to access sensitive information or even remotely control vehicles.
One of the main points of contention is the use of Chinese-made components in vehicles, particularly in the realm of autonomous driving and connected car technologies. Many automakers rely on Chinese suppliers for these components, raising concerns about the security of these systems.
In response to these concerns, the US government is considering imposing restrictions on the use of Chinese software in cars. This could involve banning specific software providers or requiring automakers to prove that their software is free from any potential security risks.
While the move is aimed at protecting national security interests, it could have significant implications for the automotive industry. Automakers may be forced to find alternative suppliers or develop their own software solutions, which could lead to delays in the development of new technologies and higher costs for consumers.
At the same time, there are also concerns about the potential for retaliation from China. The Chinese government has already expressed its opposition to any restrictions on Chinese technology, and there is a risk that such a ban could escalate tensions between the two countries even further.
Overall, the debate over banning Chinese software from cars highlights the complex interplay between national security, technology, and international relations. As the US government continues to weigh its options, it will be important to carefully consider the potential consequences of such a move and work towards finding a balance between security concerns and technological innovation.
