Investigation into National Security Risks of Smart Cars Produced in China

The investigation into potential national security risks posed by smart cars manufactured in China and other countries of concern has been deemed necessary by Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. The inquiry aims to address these risks before Chinese-made vehicles become prevalent in the United States, as highlighted during a recent press conference.

Raimondo emphasized the concern of having a large number of Chinese cars on American roads that could potentially be remotely disabled by individuals in Beijing. This scenario underscores the looming threat posed by foreign adversaries like China to the national security and privacy of US citizens.

President Biden has likened modern cars to "smartphones on wheels" and raised issues regarding unfair business practices by China, such as government subsidies for Chinese-made electric vehicles. He questioned why connected vehicles from China should be permitted to operate in the country without adequate assurances.

The US administration officials have indicated that the investigation may result in the implementation of new regulations to restrict or ban specific vehicle systems within the US, drawing parallels to trade limitations previously imposed on companies like Huawei over espionage concerns. There have also been past attempts by US politicians to prohibit platforms like TikTok for alleged national security risks.

Despite China surpassing the US as the world's largest auto market, Chinese-made cars are not commonly sold in the US due to substantial tariffs. The possibility of Chinese automakers establishing factories in Mexico has raised apprehensions among US auto industry leaders. China has criticized the US for misusing the concept of national security to unfairly target Chinese companies and impede competition in the global market.