The US government has announced the start of an investigation into cars from "countries of concern, including China". This is stated on the White House website.
In a statement, the US President said that "China is determined to dominate the future of the auto market, including by using unfair practices." He added that the country is ready to flood American roads with technologically advanced vehicles that could pose a threat to national security.
The White House fears the leakage of sensitive data due to internet-connected vehicles. The subject of the investigation will be car technology that collects data on drivers, passengers and infrastructure and can be remotely controlled.
China's embassy in the US has criticised the White House for suggesting its vehicles pose a threat to Americans. However, Biden said China was imposing restrictions on US carmakers. So he asked: "Why should connected vehicles from China be allowed to operate in our country without safeguards?"
The investigation will be conducted by the U.S. Department of Commerce to identify vulnerabilities and potential threats. The results of the investigation will help determine whether further regulatory action is needed for these vehicles.
Sources: Reuters, The White House
