US Plans to Ban Cars with Chinese and Russian Software

The US plans to ban cars and car software from Chinese and Russian origins in the coming years. The US Commerce Department has announced this. Concerns over security and espionage would be based on their origin. "In extreme situations, a foreign state could potentially stop or seize all of their vehicles, which could lead to accidents and disruptions," said Gina Raimondo, the responsible minister.

If the proposal is accepted, Chinese car software will no longer be allowed on American roads, not even for testing. The ban must apply to vehicles that have a connection via Bluetooth or satellite to a wider network. The share of Chinese cars in the US is very small; that of Russian cars is even smaller. The rule seems primarily intended to prevent an influx of new Chinese electric vehicles.

Genetically engineered car software should be banned by 2027, and cars with automotive hardware by 2029. The ministry will first hold a consultation round before actual regulations are put in place.