US to Ban Chinese, Russian Software in Connected Vehicles Over Security Fears
The US is moving to ban Chinese and Russian technologies in smart vehicles, citing national security concerns over foreign-made software in critical areas, such as the car communication system.
The US Commerce Department is set to reveal new rules that could ban hardware and software produced by Chinese and Russian companies in connected vehicles, people briefed on the matter according to myNEWS.
The move reflects security concerns surrounding smart car data, which have increasingly been connected to the Internet and systems.
The proposed regulations, expected to be revealed as early as today (Monday, September 23), would bar the use of key Chinese and Russian technologies in automated driving and in car communication systems, including autonomous vehicle simulation software. Though largely software-related, the rules also will apply to some hardware, marking a major pivot in the government’s strategy toward shielding connected vehicles from possible cybersecurity threats.
Car Communication System and Cybersecurity Concerns
Many of today’s modern electric and gasoline-powered cars have the capability to connect to cloud services and the internet through features that open them up to the hacking threat.
The current Biden Administration has been deeply concerned over foreign-made software, in particular from China and Russia. Initial reported concerns first came in March when President Joe Biden ordered a study on the possible cybersecurity risks with the fact that led to the Chinese software banned that’s used in the Car Communication System in vehicles.
Companies fear that such vehicles could be hacked or tracked by foreign nations if they’re in car communication systems rely on software developed by Chinese or Russian companies. It is a concern for the safety and privacy of American drivers as more cars use these technologies to do everything from navigation to entertainment systems.
Trade Protection and Security Threat Implications
Apart from cybersecurity concerns, there would be huge trade ramifications with the new rules. Chinese automakers reportedly risk being unable to sell any car communication system in the US because their models depend on Chinese-made connected technology when the rules are enacted.
This would also fall in line with the administration’s wider plan to lock off the US car market from foreign foes. This forms part of the broader Chinese tech ban that target various sectors.
In May, the Biden administration imposed a 100% tariff on Chinese tech ban electric vehicles (EV), citing the country’s government subsidies for its auto industry. Events like these, added to the proposed foreign technology bans in vehicles, raise the administration’s priority on US interests as American companies increase their electric vehicle output. The US ban on Chinese tech companies is designed to reinforce national security.
One issue that will be prevalent later on, as smart cars continue to get smarter, is the fine balance between technological advancement and national security. The two bans reveal a widely spreading awareness about the damage foreign-made technologies can cause in an integrated world.
Banning Chinese tech is expected to significantly shape the future of the automotive industry, especially as the push for smarter and more connected vehicles grows.
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