US Will Investigate Security Threat From Chinese 'Smart Cars'

Facts

• The US on Thursday announced an investigation into potential security threats posed by Chinese-made smart vehicles, citing concerns about technology that could collect data on US citizens.¹
• The US Dept. of Commerce will carry out the investigation, which will focus on "connected vehicles" — ones that use network connections for features such as roadside assistance or GPS. The inquiry could lead to future regulations regarding certain car parts.²
• In a statement, Pres. Joe Biden stopped short of halting Chinese imports but said he would not allow China to use 'unfair practices' that could pose national security risks in order to dominate the auto market. This comes as his administration looks to crack down on spying by foreign adversaries.³
• US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said the US wants to investigate Chinese vehicles before they “become widespread” in a country where they have yet to gain major traction due to high tariffs.⁴
• While the White House is mainly concerned with China using technology in cars to spy on US drivers, a senior administration official said there are also concerns about Russia, Iran, and Venezuela exploiting connected vehicles.⁵
• The investigation will also look into American manufacturers to see where they buy their parts and license their software.⁶

Sources: ¹CNBC, ²Verge, ³Associated Press, ⁴ABC News, ⁵CNN and ⁶New York Post.

Narratives

• Anti-China narrative, as provided by Washington Post. The US isn't playing games when it comes to potential security threats posed by Chinese cars, and this unprecedented investigation is a show of strength. It may be too easy for bad actors in Beijing to interfere with the operation of a car or steal data in the US, and the US won't stand for it.
• Pro-China narrative, as provided by South China Morning Post. China has implemented strict oversight policies to prevent illegal data gathering, but Washington is again stoking baseless fears about a threat from China. This is nothing more than the US combining an investigation with its high tariffs to attack the Chinese automotive industry and gain a competitive edge.

Predictions