In a move aimed at ensuring the protection of national security, President Joe Biden has initiated an unprecedented investigation into the potential risks posed by high-tech Chinese cars. The president expressed concerns that these vehicles could be used to steal sensitive data and potentially be remotely accessed or disabled while operating on American roads.

President Biden highlighted China's determination to dominate the future auto market through unfair practices, which could flood the American market with their vehicles and subsequently jeopardize national security. He specifically pointed out the vulnerabilities inherent in the connectivity of modern cars, stressing that Chinese-connected vehicles could collect and transmit sensitive data to the People's Republic of China.

Furthermore, the president underlined the potential risks even posed by domestically produced cars that incorporate high-tech Chinese parts, as these vehicles could also be disabled if necessary. In order to address these concerns, President Biden announced unprecedented actions to prevent any compromises to national security resulting from cars originating from countries such as China.

Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo will be leading the investigation, which aims to gather necessary information from American manufacturers, including details regarding their licensing software. While the probe will not impose immediate restrictions on the import or sale of Chinese-made automobiles, each vehicle will be subject to a comprehensive evaluation to ascertain any substantial risks, using powers granted by a Trump-era executive order.

Secretary Raimondo emphasized the urgency of the investigation, warning against the possibility of large numbers of Chinese vehicles being disabled by individuals in Beijing. The timing of the investigation seeks to address these concerns before Chinese-manufactured vehicles become widespread in the US, potentially compromising national security.

This probe follows a bipartisan group of lawmakers expressing concerns three months ago regarding Chinese companies collecting and handling sensitive data while testing self-driving cars in the United States. The lawmakers requested greater transparency regarding the information collected, daily routines of American citizens, and any financial ties to the Chinese Communist Party.

In response to the investigation, the China Passenger Car Association questioned the fairness of solely targeting Chinese vehicles for restrictions, when numerous modern vehicles globally carry intelligent sensors. The Chinese Embassy criticized the Biden administration's proposed restrictions on Chinese trade, urging the government to halt the promotion of the "China threat" theory and avoid unwarranted suppression of Chinese companies.

Additionally, President Biden's investigation seeks to safeguard American automakers from increasing competition from Chinese manufacturers. China became the world's largest auto exporter last year, sending 5.26 million vehicles overseas, primarily to Asia and Europe. Reports indicate that Chinese automakers, including electric vehicle maker BYD, are exploring factory locations in Mexico to bypass tariffs and trade restrictions when exporting to the US.

President Biden emphasized his commitment to supporting American auto workers and middle-class families dependent on the auto industry for employment. He vowed to take necessary actions to ensure that the future of the auto industry remains American-made, with a focus on supporting American workers.

As the investigation progresses, it will provide valuable insights into the potential risks associated with high-tech Chinese cars and subsequently inform policies that prioritize national security without compromising international trade relations.