Two US Democratic lawmakers have proposed a bill to prevent Chinese connected vehicles from entering the United States via Canada and Mexico. Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens and Senator Elissa Slotkin unveiled the Protecting America from Chinese Cars Act at a conference in Michigan. The legislation aims to safeguard national security and support the American auto industry by prohibiting Chinese-made or Chinese company-produced vehicles from entering the country.
The lawmakers emphasized that the bill is crucial to prevent the Chinese Communist Party from accessing sensitive information about American drivers and infrastructure. They highlighted the increasing presence of Chinese automakers in global markets, particularly in Europe and South America. The legislators expressed concerns over Chinese vehicles’ growing market share in Mexico and referenced Canada’s trade agreement with China, which will reduce tariffs on Chinese vehicles.
Stevens stressed the importance of protecting American national security and supporting Michigan autoworkers. She emphasized the need to close loopholes that allow Chinese connected vehicles to enter the US. Slotkin echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the issue extends beyond economic concerns and poses both economic and national security risks. The proposed legislation would ban fully finished Chinese vehicles from entering the US and impose restrictions on vehicles designed or manufactured in China.
The bill outlines a process for manufacturers to seek specific authorizations for prohibited vehicles, subject to strict conditions and oversight. It also mandates US Customs and Border Protection to establish enforcement procedures and compile a list of banned vehicles within 90 days of the bill’s enactment. The legislation builds on previous efforts to address concerns about Chinese connected vehicle technology entering the US market.
