The US Department of Commerce is planning to propose a ban on the use of Chinese technology or software in self-driving and internet-connected vehicles in the coming weeks.
The Biden administration intends to issue a proposed law banning Chinese technology in self-driving vehicles in America, especially those with a Level 3 or higher automated driving system. This ban would also prevent these cars from being tested on US roads, according to Reuters.
Level 3 automated driving allows drivers to engage in activities such as watching movies or using smartphones while the car is moving, but only under certain circumstances.
Additionally, the US government will propose banning cars equipped with advanced Chinese-made wireless communication units from operating in US states.
According to the proposal, car manufacturers and suppliers must ensure that the software used in their smart or self-driving cars is not developed by questionable foreign companies, including Chinese entities.
US Launches War on Chinese Technology in Cars
The US Department of Commerce announced last month plans to issue legislative proposals related to smart cars, with expected restrictions on some software developed by companies in China and other countries considered hostile.
A spokesperson for the US Department of Commerce expressed concerns about national security risks related to software in smart cars. The department’s Bureau of Industry and Security will issue a law addressing certain systems considered questionable inside vehicles. US companies will have the opportunity to review this proposed law and provide their comments.
A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington stated that the electric car industry is a global industry, emphasizing that cooperation and division of labor can achieve mutual benefits. He stressed that fair competition is the only way to achieve technological progress and urged the United States to adhere to market principles and international trade rules. China, he added, will resolutely defend its legitimate rights and interests.
The White House, in cooperation with the US State Department, organized a meeting with automotive industry leaders to discuss national security risks associated with smart vehicles. Officials from Australia, Canada, Europe, India, Japan, and South Korea also participated in the meeting. They exchanged views on the information in smart cars and cybersecurity risks, particularly concerns about Chinese companies collecting and processing sensitive data obtained through their software in self-driving cars in America. Questions related to these concerns were directed to a group of Chinese companies, including Baidu, NIO, Didi, Xpeng, Pony AI, AutoX, and others.
