Volvo gets US government approval to bypass Chinese connected-car ban
Ars Technica • • business
Key Points:
- The US Department of Commerce has granted Volvo Cars, partly owned by China’s Zhejiang Geely Holding, permission to import connected cars into the US despite a ban on vehicle software with Chinese links starting from model year 2027.
- The ban on connected vehicles with Chinese ties was introduced under the Biden administration and maintained by the Trump administration, with hardware restrictions beginning in model year 2030; however, automakers can petition for exemptions.
- Volvo Cars successfully obtained a specific authorization after discussions with US officials about its governance, technology, and data security, allowing continued import and sale of connected vehicles in the US.
- Polestar, a Volvo-affiliated brand also affected by the Commerce rule, is actively working with US authorities to comply with the regulations.
- Volvo’s exemption sets a precedent that may enable other Chinese-linked electric vehicle manufacturers to enter the US market in the future, reflecting growing interest from American consumers.