U.S. Bans the Import of Cars from China and Russia Due to Security Risks

This Tuesday, the United States made an important decision by banning the sale and import of connected cars from China and Russia. The measure also affects the hardware and software components used in these vehicles. The main reason for this ban is national security, according to the U.S. government.

The New Regulation for Connected Vehicles

The White House explained in a statement that the U.S. Department of Commerce issued a final regulation. This new regulation bans the sale and import of hardware and software systems for connected vehicles, as well as the vehicles themselves, if they come from China or Russia. According to the government, the components of these cars (such as wifi, bluetooth, or satellite connection) pose a significant threat to the security of the vehicles currently on the road.

The Joe Biden administration justified the measure by saying that the presence of these components in the supply chains of cars from enemy countries could put the security of the vehicles and, consequently, the country’s critical infrastructure at risk.

When Will It Take Effect?

The ban will begin to apply to 2027 model vehicles. Starting from that date, complete cars with components from China or Russia will no longer be allowed for sale or import. Meanwhile, restrictions on hardware will apply to vehicles from the 2030 model year.

Support from Automobile Manufacturers

The Alliance for Automotive Innovation, which includes major manufacturers such as General Motors (GM), Ford, Kia, and Stellantis, expressed its support for the new regulation. John Bozzella, the president of the group, stated that the automotive sector agrees with the measure because it addresses the unacceptable risks associated with information and communication technologies from enemy countries like China and Russia.

Protecting Critical Infrastructure

The U.S. government also emphasized that this decision will protect its transportation system, ensuring it is not exposed to cybersecurity risks from foreign nations. The country’s critical infrastructure is under threat, and some cyber actors, such as those sponsored by the Chinese government, have already attempted to infiltrate this area.

According to the White House, certain systems in connected vehicles could be used to collect sensitive data, such as geolocation information, which poses a privacy risk to citizens.

International Collaboration

To address these risks, the United States has worked closely with its international allies. In July 2024, a meeting of several countries will be held to coordinate cybersecurity measures for connected vehicles. The goal is to create standards that will help mitigate the risks associated with connected car technology.

What Are the Next Steps?

As the new regulation comes into effect, the Department of Commerce and other U.S. government agencies will continue collaborating with the automotive industry and their international partners to implement the necessary measures and improve the security of vehicles in the country.