Threatening National Security, the US will Ban the Use of Chinese Software in Autonomous Cars

Mercedes-Benz is the first manufacturer to have a Level 3 autonomy-level permit for the US market. (Doc. Mercedes-Benz)

JAKARTA - The United States (US) Ministry of Trade is expected to propose a ban on the use of Chinese software on autonomous and connected vehicles in the coming weeks. This was revealed based on sources familiar with the matter.

Administrative Biden plans to issue a regulation banning the use of Chinese software on vehicles in the United States with Level 3 autonomy levels and above. As a result, testing Chinese-made autonomous vehicles on US roads will also be banned.

The plan, reported by Reuters, August 6, also prohibits vehicles with advanced wireless communication capabilities modules developed by China from operating on US roads.

According to the proposal, automakers and suppliers need to verify that their connected vehicle software or advanced autonomous vehicles are not developed in "foreign entities of concern" such as China.

Meanwhile, a spokesman for the Chinese Embassy in Washington said electric vehicles were the global industry.

"Only the division of work and cooperation can bring mutual benefits, and only healthy competition can bring technological advances," the spokesman said.

He added, "China urges the US to seriously adhere to market principles and international trade rules, as well as create equal playgrounds for companies from all countries. China will firmly defend its legitimate rights and interests."

The US government is said Reuters is concerned about connected vehicles using the driver's monitoring system because they can listen to or record passenger conversations or take control of the vehicle itself.

"The national security risk is quite significant, we decided to take action because this is a serious problem," Trade Minister Gina Raimondo said in May.

On Wednesday, August 5, the White House and the State Department held a meeting with allies and industry leaders to jointly address national security risks associated with connected vehicles.

The meeting was attended by officials from the United States, Australia, Canada, the European Union, Germany, India, Japan, South Korea, Spain, and the UK who exchanged views on cybersecurity data and risks related to connected vehicles and certain components.

Level 3, which is also known as conditional driving automation, involves technology that allows drivers to perform activities behind the wheel, such as watching movies or using smartphones, but only in limited conditions.