The US Commerce Department is expected to propose a ban on Chinese software used in autonomous and connected vehicles in the coming weeks, according to reports.
The Biden administration plans to issue a proposed rule that would prohibit Chinese software in vehicles with Level 3 automation and above. This would also ban testing of autonomous vehicles made by Chinese companies on US roads.
Additionally, the administration plans to propose banning vehicles with advanced wireless communication modules developed in China from US roads. Automakers and suppliers would need to ensure that none of their connected vehicle or advanced autonomous vehicle software comes from “foreign entities of concern” like China.
Last month, the Commerce Department announced plans to release proposed rules in August that would limit some Chinese and other foreign software deemed risky. A Commerce Department spokesperson mentioned concerns about national security risks related to connected technologies in vehicles.
The Bureau of Industry and Security will release the proposed rule, focusing on specific systems within the vehicle. The industry will have the opportunity to review and comment on this rule.
The Chinese Embassy in Washington has not yet responded, but the Chinese foreign ministry has previously urged the US to follow market economy laws and fair competition principles. They argue that Chinese cars are popular worldwide due to strong market competition and technological innovation.
On Wednesday, the White House and State Department held a meeting with allies and industry leaders to address national security risks associated with connected vehicles. This meeting included officials from the US, Australia, Canada, the EU, Germany, India, Japan, South Korea, Spain, and the UK, who discussed data and cybersecurity risks related to connected vehicles and their components.
Level 3 automation, also known as conditional driving automation, allows drivers to engage in activities like watching movies or using smartphones while the vehicle drives itself, but only under certain conditions.
In November, US lawmakers expressed concerns about Chinese companies collecting and handling sensitive data while testing autonomous vehicles in the US. They sent inquiries to major Chinese companies. These companies had tested more than 450,000 miles in California in the 12 months ending November 2022.
