A bipartisan group of US lawmakers has put forth the “Connected Vehicle Security Act” to prohibit Chinese-linked connected vehicles, software, and hardware on American roads. Congressman John Moolenaar and Democratic Congresswoman Debbie Dingell introduced the bill, citing national security risks and unfair trade practices. The legislation aims to safeguard American auto industry jobs and prevent Chinese products from undermining domestic manufacturing.
Moolenaar emphasized the importance of the American auto industry, accusing China of unfair practices such as overproduction and selling vehicles and components at low prices to harm US companies. He also raised concerns about Chinese firms using “slave labor” to gain a competitive edge. Dingell echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need to protect American manufacturing jobs and avoid past industrial declines caused by unfair trade practices.
The proposed bill targets “covered foreign adversary countries,” including China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran, with restrictions set to begin in 2027. It seeks to ban the importation, manufacture, sale, or introduction of connected vehicles from these countries, along with connected vehicle software and hardware. The legislation underscores the risks associated with connected vehicles collecting and transmitting sensitive data, emphasizing the potential for remote access and control.
The bill mandates compliance mechanisms overseen by the Secretary of Commerce, including penalties of at least $1.5 million per violation. It reflects bipartisan worries in Washington about Chinese technology infiltrating critical sectors like electric vehicles and advanced telecommunications. Lawmakers are particularly concerned about cybersecurity, supply chain reliance, and industrial competition posed by Chinese automakers like BYD expanding globally.
