Biden administration investigating Chinese-made ‘smart cars’ for national security risks

The Biden administration announced Thursday that it is investigating the national security risks posed by Chinese-made “smart cars” amid concerns about foreign governments gaining access to the cars’ systems and data.

The Commerce Department will investigate the risks associated with connected cars that incorporate technology from China and other “countries of concern” and consider potential regulations, the White House said.

“It doesn’t take a lot of imagination to think of how foreign government with access to connected vehicles could pose a serious risk to both our national security and the personal privacy of U.S. citizens,” Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said in a statement.

As cars increasingly employ advanced technology, they are “constantly connecting” with people’s personal devices, other cars, American infrastructure and their original manufacturer, the White House noted.

“Connected vehicles collect large amounts of sensitive data on their drivers and passengers; regularly use their cameras and sensors to record detailed information on U.S. infrastructure; interact directly with critical infrastructure; and can be piloted or disabled remotely,” the White House said. 

“Connected autos that rely on technology and data systems from countries of concern, including the People’s Republic of China, could be exploited in ways that threaten national security,” it added.

President Biden emphasized that China has already imposed restrictions on American and other foreign cars operating in the country.

“Why should connected vehicles from China be allowed to operate in our country without safeguards?” he said in a statement.

“China is determined to dominate the future of the auto market, including by using unfair practices,” the president added. “China’s policies could flood our market with its vehicles, posing risks to our national security. I’m not going to let that happen on my watch.”