US proposes ban on Chinese auto imports over software security concerns

The Biden administration has proposed new rules to block the import of connected vehicle software from "countries of concern," effectively banning all auto imports from China. This move addresses national security threats related to potential sabotage and surveillance. The regulations will require American automakers to remove Chinese-made software and hardware from their vehicles. The software ban is set to take effect for model year 2027, while the hardware prohibition will start in 2030. This proposal follows recent tariffs on Chinese imports, including a 100 percent duty on electric vehicles. The rules aim to protect domestic manufacturers amid concerns that Chinese EVs could dominate the U.S. market.