WASHINGTON, D.C., May 10 (ANI) — A bipartisan group of US lawmakers is preparing legislation aimed at blocking Chinese-linked vehicles and automotive components from entering the American market, citing national security concerns and fears of data surveillance.
The move comes amid growing concern in Washington over Beijing’s expanding influence in the global electric vehicle industry, according to a report by The Epoch Times.
Republican Congressman John Moolenaar, chair of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, joined Democratic Congresswoman Debbie Dingell in announcing plans for bipartisan legislation targeting Chinese-connected automobiles.
In a joint statement, the lawmakers said modern vehicles function as advanced data-gathering systems capable of tracking movements, locations, passengers, and critical infrastructure in real time. They argued that allowing Chinese-made software or hardware in American vehicles could expose the United States to espionage and cyber threats.
The proposed House legislation follows mounting warnings from US intelligence and security officials. Earlier this year, the United States Department of Commerce finalized regulations restricting transactions involving connected vehicles equipped with certain Chinese hardware and software technologies.
Security concerns intensified after former FBI Director Christopher Wray told lawmakers in 2024 that Chinese state-backed hacking groups, including Volt Typhoon, had infiltrated critical American infrastructure networks.
Wray warned that such groups could potentially disrupt transportation systems and other essential infrastructure during a geopolitical crisis.
The House proposal mirrors the Connected Vehicle Security Act of 2026 introduced in the Senate by Senators Bernie Moreno and Elissa Slotkin.
Slotkin described Chinese vehicles as “surveillance packages on wheels” and emphasized the need for legal safeguards to protect both national security and the domestic automotive industry, according to The Epoch Times.
Meanwhile, the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation endorsed the initiative, arguing that Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers benefit from extensive state support and function as instruments of Beijing’s economic strategy.
According to the report, China provided more than USD 230 billion in subsidies and financial assistance to its electric vehicle sector between 2009 and 2023. (ANI)
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