President Biden has directed the United States to probe the national security threats posed by Chinese-manufactured 'smart cars'. The administration suspects that these vehicles, produced in China, possess the ability to extract sensitive information from American drivers.
In a statement issued by President Biden, he states, "China is determined to dominate the future of the auto market, including by using unfair practices. China’s policies could flood our market with its vehicles, posing risks to our national security. Most cars these days are like smart phones on wheels. These cars are connected to our phones, to navigation systems, to critical infrastructure, and to the companies that made them. Connected vehicles from China could collect sensitive data about our citizens and our infrastructure and send this data back to the People’s Republic of China." It's worth noting that recently, the United States has also initiated an investigation into Chinese infiltration on US ports through technologies produced in China.
According to ABC News, this probe could result in new regulations aimed at curtailing the use of sophisticated technologies in electric vehicles. Features such as driver assistance technology provide China with extensive data on American consumers, including personal details. New vehicles have been engineered using advanced technologies that consistently connect to personal devices. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo asserts that the espionage and cyber risks these imported vehicles pose are significant. The Department of Commerce plans to gather information from auto manufacturers for a better understanding of these risks.
An executive order has been signed with a view to safeguarding the health and financial records of Americans from China and Russia. Due to high tariffs imposed by the United States on China - a policy initiated by the Trump administration and continued under President Biden - there are currently few cars imported from China. These tariffs persist as tensions between China and the United States continue to escalate.
