U.S. Weighs Ban on Chinese Software in Autonomous Vehicles

The U.S. Commerce Department, under the Biden administration, plans to propose a rule banning Chinese software in autonomous and connected vehicles. This measure aims to address national security concerns and will require verification from automakers and suppliers. Global allies and industry leaders recently discussed these potential restrictions.

The U.S. Commerce Department is preparing to propose a ban on Chinese software in autonomous and connected vehicles, sources close to the matter revealed. This proposed rule, targeting Level 3 automation and above, aims to tackle national security concerns and could halt the testing of Chinese autonomous vehicles on U.S. roads.

Additionally, vehicles with advanced Chinese wireless communication modules may also be barred. The rule requires that automakers and suppliers verify that no software in their connected and autonomous vehicles was developed in any 'foreign entity of concern,' specifically mentioning China.

The Bureau of Industry and Security within the department will allow industry feedback on the proposed rule. The White House and State Department recently met with international allies to discuss the cybersecurity risks of connected vehicles, highlighting the urgency the administration places on securing national data.

(With inputs from agencies.)