The United States has taken a significant step to address security concerns related to self-driving vehicles by proposing a ban on the use of Chinese and Russian technology in these vehicles. This move, announced by the US Department of Commerce (DoC), aims to prevent potential risks to national security and the privacy of American citizens.
The proposed rule, which targets both imported and domestically manufactured self-driving vehicles, would prohibit the use of specific software and hardware components originating from China and Russia. These components include the Vehicle Connectivity System (VCS) and the Automated Driving System (ADS). The VCS enables vehicles to communicate externally, while the ADS is responsible for enabling autonomous driving capabilities.
The DoC’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has identified these technologies as posing an “undue risk” to US critical infrastructure and the safety of those using connected vehicles. The concern stems from the potential for foreign adversaries to gain access to sensitive data and remotely manipulate vehicles on American roads through these technologies.
The proposed ban would apply to all wheeled vehicles designed for public roads, including cars, trucks, and buses. However, it would exclude vehicles not used on public roads, such as agricultural or mining vehicles.
US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo emphasized the potential dangers posed by foreign access to data collected by self-driving vehicles. She stated, “Cars today have cameras, microphones, GPS tracking, and other technologies connected to the internet. It doesn’t take much imagination to understand how a foreign adversary with access to this information could pose a serious risk to both our national security and the privacy of US citizens.”
The Biden administration has consistently expressed concerns about the collection of data on US drivers and infrastructure by China. There are also concerns about the potential for Chinese and Russian actors to manipulate vehicles remotely if they maintain control of the data or the systems.
The proposed ban is not without precedent. In 2022, a US agricultural equipment manufacturer reportedly remotely disabled millions of dollars worth of equipment that had been stolen by Russian forces in Ukraine. This incident highlights the potential for malicious actors to exploit vulnerabilities in connected vehicles to disrupt operations or cause harm.
The DoC’s proposed ban is part of a broader effort by the Biden administration to limit China’s influence in key technological sectors. This move comes after recent actions, such as imposing tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and restricting China’s access to advanced semiconductor technology. The US government is determined to safeguard its national security and technological advantage in the face of growing competition from China and Russia.
The proposed rule is currently open for public comment, and it remains to be seen how it will be finalized and implemented. The outcome of this process will have significant implications for the development and deployment of self-driving vehicles in the United States.
