Gordon Chang warns Chinese EVs entering US via Canada could become ‘rolling spy machines'

• Sen. Bernie Moreno called Chinese EVs 'little Trojan horses' due to their ability to collect and transmit large amounts of data back to the Communist Party
• Chang warned that Canada's lower tariffs on Chinese EV imports could create a pathway for the vehicles to enter the U.S., enabling surveillance even through Canadian-owned cars crossing the border
• The security concerns are drawing attention as President Trump prepares for a high-stakes meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping to discuss trade practices and China's growing EV footprint

Summary

Key Security Concerns:

Gordon Chang, Gatestone Institute senior fellow, has raised national security alarms about Chinese electric vehicles potentially entering the U.S. through Canada, describing them as "rolling spy machines." The warning comes ahead of President Trump's meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Main Issues Identified:

• Chinese EVs contain extensive camera systems and connected-vehicle technology capable of collecting and transmitting sensitive data to the Communist Party
• Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) characterized these vehicles as "little Trojan horses" that can be remotely controlled
• Chang warns that Canada's lower tariffs on Chinese EV imports could create a backdoor entry point into the U.S. market
• He specifically cautioned against allowing Canadian-driven Chinese EVs to cross the border, as they could enable surveillance of U.S. territory

Legislative Response:

U.S. lawmakers are pushing legislation to ban Chinese vehicles and battery plants from the American market due to these surveillance and data collection concerns.

Broader Context:

The issue highlights escalating U.S.-China tensions surrounding:

• Trade practices
• Energy policy
• Beijing's expanding EV footprint in North America
• Data security and foreign surveillance capabilities

Market Implications:

These concerns could significantly impact Chinese EV manufacturers' North American expansion plans and potentially lead to stricter cross-border vehicle regulations between the U.S. and Canada. The discussion underscores growing scrutiny of Chinese technology products in Western markets beyond just telecommunications equipment.