Senior government ministers in the UK are expressing apprehension over the potential use of Chinese electric cars for espionage by collecting extensive customer data.
This concern is further amplified by cross-party MPs who fear that the country’s car market infrastructure could fall under China’s control, posing significant security risks.
Concerns Over Chinese Electric Cars
The worry is fueled by legislation introduced by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, requiring car dealers to ensure that at least 22 percent of their sales come from electric vehicles by 2024.
This move is part of the UK’s commitment to banning all new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, seen as a critical step in combating the climate crisis.
However, the influx of Chinese technology resulting from this policy has raised concerns about data privacy and potential surveillance.
China’s dominance in the international electric car market is attributed to its strong hold on the supply chain.
The nation controls essential raw material mining, while Chinese firms account for 80 percent of electric vehicle battery production, solidifying China’s position as the world’s top car exporter.
A senior government source questioned the assurance that electric cars manufactured in countries like China won’t be utilized for intelligence gathering and data collection.
Given China’s history of leveraging technology for surveillance, this concern appears justified.
The rising popularity of electric vehicles in the UK is evident from recent figures, with a remarkable 88 percent increase in new electric car sales in the past year alone.
In July, an electric car was sold every minute, signaling a significant shift towards greener transportation.
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Security Concerns Over UK’s Cheaper Chinese Electric Vehicles
However, as the UK embraces cheaper Chinese electric vehicles, there are valid fears that these cars could be used to gather sensitive data, photographs, and even audio recordings, potentially exploited by foreign entities.
Comparisons have been drawn to the Huawei controversy, with former Home Secretary Dame Priti Patel emphasizing the realistic nature of the risks, citing past challenges with 5G technology.
Forecourts in the UK are expected to see an influx of up to 25 brands of affordable Chinese electric cars once new petrol and diesel car sales are banned in 2030.
While this presents an opportunity for a more sustainable future, it also raises concerns about potential security vulnerabilities.
Experts stress the need to diversify the supply chain for electric vehicles, with suppliers from different nations, to mitigate security risks.
They advocate for robust security controls when dealing with Chinese suppliers to safeguard against data misuse and surveillance activities.
The discovery of a Chinese SIM card capable of transmitting location data inside a UK government car in January highlights potential security risks associated with Chinese technology.
Tu Le of Sino Auto Insights warns that sensors used in driving assist systems could be misused to map neighborhoods, creating risks for sensitive government buildings or military compounds.
As the UK aims for a greener future, it must strike a balance between environmental goals and national security.
Vigilance and stringent security measures are essential to ensure that the transition to electric vehicles remains environmentally responsible and protected from potential surveillance threats.
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