U.S. to ban Chinese software in self-driving cars

U.S. lawmakers is expected to propose barring Chinese software in autonomous and connected vehicles in the coming weeks.

The proposed rule would prohibit Chinese software in vehicles with Level 3 automation and above. The above-mentioned amendment to the regulations may could come in September and would effectively bar Chinese companies from testing their self-driving tech on American roads.

The potential ban would be another step in the years-long technology conflict between the world’s two largest economies. The new regulations come amid growing concerns about the national security implications of Chinese technology. CAVs require advanced software for navigation, communications and data management. This software could potentially be used for purposes other than its original purpose, given the vast amounts of data these systems collect about roads, infrastructure and user behavior.

The proposal, once in effect, could have a knock-on effect across the global automotive supply chain, potentially forcing carmakers to cut ties with Chinese technology firms, redesign systems and find alternative software suppliers. This could lead to delays in developing and deploying autonomous vehicles, a field where the US is competing fiercely with China for technological leadership. Given the complex nature of the automotive industry’s global supply chains, a key question is how widely the ban will be applied and enforced.

The news of the ban did not go unanswered by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs: „China urges the US to respect market principles and provide an open, fair, transparent and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese enterprises. China will resolutely safeguard its legitimate rights and interests.” suggests that the proposed ban could potentially invite retaliatory measures from China. Nevertheless, the proposal will likely face scrutiny from industry stakeholders and may evolve before any final rule is implemented, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce Agency.

Source: https://iottechnews.com/news/us-plans-to-ban-chinese-tech-in-autonomous-vehicles/