Major automakers in the United States, represented by the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, have formally urged Congress to enact a permanent ban on the sale, import, and manufacturing of Chinese connected vehicles, hardware, and software within the country [1]. In a letter sent to congressional leaders, the Alliance, which represents the vast majority of companies selling vehicles in the U.S., called for the ban to be enacted before the end of the current congressional session on January 3 [1].
John Bozzella, CEO of the Alliance, stated, "Right now, Chinese automakers are dumping subsidized vehicles with connected software and hardware around the world. This hasn't happened inside the U.S. yet, but given the scale and urgency of this threat, we urge you to enact a Chinese vehicle, software and hardware ban before adjourning this year and make this policy the law of the land" [1]. The letter comes amid bipartisan efforts in both the House and Senate to address the issue of Chinese vehicles, including legislation advanced by the Senate Commerce Committee that could potentially ban Mercedes-Benz in the U.S. due to nearly 20% ownership by Chinese investors [1].
The Alliance, which includes Mercedes-Benz, expressed its willingness to collaborate with lawmakers to "achieve a balanced policy so all our member companies continue to succeed and thrive inside the U.S." [1]. Automakers have expressed concerns that Chinese companies such as BYD and Geely are increasing exports to Europe and Central and South America, undercutting domestic production and vehicle prices [1].
Bozzella emphasized that enacting a permanent ban during the 119th Congress would send a clear and bipartisan message that the U.S. government is prepared to respond to China's strategy to dominate global automotive manufacturing with a national security policy [1]. The timing of the midterm elections in November could influence Congress' momentum on this issue [1].
CONCLUSION
U.S. automakers are intensifying their call for Congress to permanently ban Chinese connected vehicles, citing national security and market competition concerns. The Alliance for Automotive Innovation is urging swift legislative action before the current session ends, highlighting the urgency and potential market impact of such a policy. The outcome could significantly affect both domestic and international automotive markets.