The U.S. Department of Commerce (DoC) has announced a proposed ban on the import or sale of connected vehicles that integrate software and hardware from foreign adversaries, especially those from China and Russia.
The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) stated in a press release that the proposed rule focuses on the integration of hardware and software into the Vehicle Connectivity System (VCS) and the Automated Driving System (ADS) in connected vehicles.
The agency expressed concerns that malicious access to these systems could lead to the harvesting of sensitive data and remote manipulation of vehicles on American roads.
The proposal applies to all wheeled on-road vehicles like cars, trucks, and buses, excluding agricultural and mining vehicles.
The BIS emphasized that certain technologies from China and Russia pose a risk to U.S. critical infrastructure and the privacy of citizens who use connected vehicles.
The import and sale of vehicles with specific VCS or ADS hardware or software linked to China or Russia will be banned under this proposed rule.
The restrictions on software will come into effect by Model Year 2027, and the restrictions on hardware by Model Year 2030 or January 1, 2029, for units without a model year.
In a coordinated statement, the White House highlighted the importance of ensuring the resilience and security of U.S. automotive supply chains against foreign threats due to the increasing connectivity of vehicles to digital networks.
This development is timely as internet-connected vehicles have become a target for gathering data that can potentially invade users’ privacy, as seen in cases where sensitive information is captured via vehicle cameras or shared with car insurance providers.
