New Focus On Blocking Chinese, Russian Vehicle Technology Risks

U.S. Plans New Rule to Keep Connected Vehicles Safe

The U.S. Department of Commerce has a new plan to protect connected vehicles from foreign threats. This plan would limit the use of certain technology parts in vehicles. The rule is aimed at stopping parts that come from China and Russia. The goal is to keep people’s personal information safe and protect the security of the U.S.

What the Rule Is About

Cars, trucks, and buses are now often connected to the internet. This helps with things like GPS, Bluetooth, and, in some cases, self-driving features. A recent Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) report says that foreign-made parts in these systems could be risky. These parts could allow outsiders to control or get information from U.S. vehicles. The BIS is especially focused on parts in two systems: the Vehicle Connectivity System (VCS) and the Automated Driving System (ADS).

The VCS includes parts that let vehicles connect to the internet. The ADS includes parts that allow a vehicle to drive itself. Both of these systems are essential for connected vehicles, and both could be vulnerable to misuse if certain parts come from foreign countries.

U.S. Officials Talk About the Risk

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo spoke about why this rule is needed. She pointed out that today’s vehicles have cameras, GPS, and microphones. “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 U.S. citizens,” Raimondo said.

Jake Sullivan, the National Security Advisor, added that this rule is an important step for protecting the country. “This rule marks a critical step forward in protecting America’s technology supply chains from foreign threats and ensures that connected vehicle technologies are secure from the potential exploitation of entities linked to the PRC and Russia,” he said.

Timeline for the Rule

The rule would take effect in phases. First, it would apply to software in the 2027 model year. Then, in 2030, it would apply to hardware. This means automakers will have time to replace any parts that fall under this new rule. For vehicles without a model year, the rule would start on January 1, 2029.

Legal Basis for the Rule

This rule is based on Executive Order 13873, “Securing the Information and Communications Technology and Services Supply Chain.” This order allows BIS to make rules for technologies that may be risky to the security of the U.S. The BIS believes that foreign-made technology could create problems for U.S. infrastructure and people’s safety, which is why they are taking these steps.

BIS Asks for Public Feedback

The BIS is seeking comments on this new rule. People and businesses can share their thoughts for 30 days after the rule is published. The BIS wants input to help shape the final rule. Anyone interested can find the rule’s text and submit comments through the Federal eRulemaking Portal or by email.

Looking Ahead

This proposed rule is a step toward protecting U.S. drivers and vehicles. It aims to limit the use of risky, foreign-made technology in connected vehicles. The rule would help keep American roads and people safe as cars become more high-tech. By keeping these foreign-made parts out, the U.S. is prioritizing safety and security for the future of transportation.