In the midst of a technological war with China, the Biden government has just drawn a massive weapon: the outright ban on Chinese connected cars on American soil.
The new regulations, finalized on January 14, 2025, aim to effectively ban all Chinese connected vehicles on American soil. A measure which not only targets traditional Chinese manufacturers, but which could also affect brands like Polestar or Volvo, which are already well established in the United States.
The justification put forward by Washington? National cybersecurity. Gina Raimondo, American Secretary of Commerce, does not beat around the bush: “ Modern cars are veritable rolling data centers, equipped with cameras, microphones and GPS. In the wrong hands, these technologies could become formidable espionage tools« .
In two stages
The measure will be deployed in two stages: from 2027 for software, then in 2030 for Chinese hardware. Contrary to what one might think, the place of manufacture is not the only criterion.
Even assembled in the United States, a car controlled by a Chinese entity will fall under these regulations. This is particularly the case of Polestar or Volvo (Chinese group Geely), which despite their factory in South Carolina, could be prohibited from marketing on American territory.
The traditional automotive industry is not left behind. While Ford, GM and other major manufacturers officially support the objective of the regulation, they are sounding the alarm on its implementation. And for good reason: the global automotive supply chain is deeply intertwined with Chinese industry.
Even more surprising, this regulation could also impact players like Waymo, Google's autonomous car specialist. The company, which planned to use vehicles from Chinese manufacturer Zeekr for its next generation of robotaxis, finds itself in a delicate position.
This new trade restriction comes at a critical time: China is the world's leading automobile exporter. A position that visibly worries Washington, ready to erect regulatory barriers to protect its market.
The US, a special market
The United States already presents a very unique market for electric vehicles, dominated by national manufacturers.
To go further
Electric cars in the US: the market remains an impregnable fortress for Europe and China
In 2024, the sales figures speak for themselves: the top 10 is exclusively made up of American models, with overwhelming domination by Tesla. No Chinese or European manufacturer has managed to break into this ranking, despite the efforts of brands like Volkswagen with its ID.4 or Polestar with its Polestar 2.
Want to find the best Frandroid articles on Google News? You can follow Frandroid on Google News in one click.
Related News :