Chinese Vehicle Ban Gains Support From Major U.S. Automakers

Major U.S. Automakers Urge Congress to Advance Chinese Vehicle Restrictions

On September 3, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation urged Congress to pass legislation before the end of 2026 that would establish a Chinese vehicle ban affecting vehicles, software, and hardware connected to China. The group represents most major U.S. automakers and is seeking action before Congress adjourns for the year. The request comes as lawmakers consider measures designed to prevent Chinese companies from expanding their automotive presence in the U.S. market. The Alliance's position places additional industry pressure on Congress to address concerns surrounding connected vehicles and technology associated with China.

Auto Alliance Calls for Legislation Before Year-End

Alliance for Automotive Innovation CEO John Bozzella outlined the group's position in a letter sent to Congress, emphasizing what the organization described as the scale and urgency of the threat. Bozzella wrote, "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." The Alliance represents major automakers including General Motors, Ford Motor Company, Stellantis, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Honda, among other manufacturers operating in the U.S. automotive market.

Connected Vehicle Security Act Targets China-Linked Technology

The industry's request follows congressional efforts to establish stronger barriers against China building an automotive presence in the United States. In May, Republican U.S. Representative John Moolenaar and Democratic Representative Debbie Dingell introduced the Connected Vehicle Security Act in the House. The legislation is intended to strengthen restrictions on China-linked connected vehicle technology, with supporters citing both economic and national security concerns. The House measure has a companion bill in the Senate, reflecting bipartisan interest in addressing the potential risks associated with internet-connected vehicles and related automotive technologies linked to China or other U.S. adversaries.

Senate and House Bills Remain Under Development

The Senate companion to the House legislation was introduced in April by Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin and Republican Senator Bernie Moreno. Both measures would ban the import, manufacture, and sale of internet-connected vehicles, software, and hardware linked to China or other adversaries. However, neither bill has completed the legislative process, and each remains a work in progress in its respective chamber. The latest request from the Alliance for Automotive Innovation therefore adds industry pressure while Congress continues considering the scope and final structure of potential restrictions on connected vehicles, automotive software, and hardware associated with China.

Frequently Asked Questions

What would the proposed Chinese vehicle restrictions do?
The proposed measures would establish significant restrictions on internet-connected vehicles, software, and hardware linked to China or other U.S. adversaries, with the stated objective of addressing economic and national security concerns. The House and Senate bills would prohibit the import, manufacture, and sale of covered technologies and vehicles. The legislation remains under development in both chambers, meaning its final provisions could change before Congress completes consideration. The Alliance for Automotive Innovation is urging lawmakers to enact the restrictions before Congress adjourns in 2026.