iscover
Share this article on:
Powered by
MOMENTUM
MEDIA
The US government is currently investigating if the recent influx of Chinese cars in Western markets will be a threat to national security.
The US Department of Commerce launched the probe due to concerns regarding “connected vehicles” coming from China and other countries of concern, in light of modern vehicles increasingly using advanced technology, which connects to personal devices containing personal data.
Chinese auto manufacturers like Build Your Dreams (BYD), Ineos and MG are gaining an increasing foothold in Western markets due to their massively cheap pricing and value for money.
“Autos increasingly leverage advanced technologies to enable navigational tools, provide driver assist features, and reduce operating costs and carbon emissions through fast and efficient charging,” said a White House press release.
“These autos are constantly connecting with personal devices, other cars, US infrastructure, and their original manufacturer.
“New vulnerabilities and threats could arise with connected autos if a foreign government gained access to these vehicles’ systems or data.
“Connected vehicles collect large amounts of sensitive data on their drivers and passengers; regularly use their cameras and sensors to record detailed information on US infrastructure; interact directly with critical infrastructure; and can be piloted or disabled remotely.”
The collection of sensitive data by foreign automakers could present a national security risk for the US if the information reaches the governments of countries of concern.
China is of particular concern due to article 7 of Chinese Intelligence Law, which obligates Chinese organisations, agencies, individuals and other parties to support national intelligence undertakings, which could mean providing data it has collected from international operations, like the data collected from cars. Article 14 demands parties to cooperate.
The new US government probe will evaluate the risks to national security presented by foreign car makers, with the Department of Commerce issuing an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM).
“As part of the investigation, Commerce will gather information from the industry and the public on the nature of these risks, and potential steps that could be taken to mitigate them,” added the release.
“Commerce intends to use this information to help inform and scope potential regulations to govern the use of technology in vehicles from certain countries.”
Stakeholders of auto manufacturers of concern are being encouraged to reach out to the Department of Commerce to provide input.
“The department will consult closely with industry, US allies and partners, and other stakeholders throughout the regulatory process to ensure any actions maximally protect US national security, while minimising unintended consequences or disruptions,” it said.
Be the first to hear the latest developments in the cyber industry.
