US bans all Chinese, Russian tech in passenger cars citing national security reasons

The United States has just announced a major new rule banning Chinese and Russian technology from passenger vehicles sold in the country, with national security concerns at the forefront. This ban targets both software and hardware from these countries and is part of a broader effort to reduce China’s influence in key industries like automotive tech.  

It’s a significant step in the ongoing drive to keep foreign tech out of sensitive areas, including drones and other advanced technologies.

Protecting cars & American infra from foreign influence

This move builds on President Joe Biden’s push to tighten control over technologies linked to China and Russia. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo pointed out that modern cars are packed with technology like cameras, microphones, GPS, and internet connectivity.  

While these features make driving easier and safer, they also open the door to spying or interference, especially if they rely on foreign-made tech. The goal here is simple: prevent Chinese and Russian technology from making its way into American cars to keep them safe from potential misuse.

Two-phase rollout and the global impact

For now, the ban will apply to passenger vehicles weighing under 10,001 pounds, but there are plans to extend it to include larger vehicles like buses and trucks down the line. The restrictions will be rolled out in two phases. First, there’s the software ban, which will kick in starting with the 2027 model year. Then, by 2030, a hardware ban will take effect. The main focus will be on companies with strong ties to China or Russia, preventing them from selling cars that include foreign technology for things like internet connectivity or self-driving features. Plus, any imports of these technologies from China and Russia will be restricted.

One company that could be impacted is BYD, a Chinese electric vehicle giant with a manufacturing facility in California that produces buses and other vehicles. There’s growing concern in the US that foreign-built tech in connected vehicles could lead to security risks, like the misuse of sensitive data or interference with vital vehicle systems.

Shaping America’s future tech landscape

This ban is part of a wider strategy to strengthen US industries and reduce reliance on foreign technologies. On the same day, President Biden signed an executive order to fast-track the development of AI infrastructure within the country. He made it clear that the US can’t afford to fall behind in building the technologies that will shape the future, particularly in industries like artificial intelligence and autonomous driving.

With Biden preparing to pass the baton to President-elect Donald Trump, it’s unclear how the incoming administration will handle these new policies. While many expect Trump to shake up government strategies, it’s likely that some of these national security measures will remain a central focus moving forward.