UK Warned of Espionage Risks from Chinese-Made Electric Vehicles Over a Year Ago, But Lacked Ability to Develop Own

Strategic Insights -

The UK government was alerted to potential espionage risks and threats to national security from Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs) over a year ago, but has made little progress in addressing the issue. The warning came from the US, which has since banned the import of Chinese EVs over national security concerns. The UK has effectively banned Chinese vehicles from Ministry of Defence sites, but has not followed the US in banning the import of Chinese EVs, despite warnings that the tech-laden cars could threaten lives.

Key Takeaways:

  • The UK was warned about espionage risks and threats to national security from Chinese-made EVs over a year ago, with the US planned ban of Chinese EVs in March 2024.
  • The US briefing highlighted the risks of Chinese EVs, including remote access to vehicles from Beijing, which could threaten lives and critical infrastructure.
  • The UK government has done little to act on the warnings, with a defence industry source attributing this to a lack of investment in the UK's EV manufacturing base.
  • 94,168 new cars from Chinese brands were sold in the UK in 2024, making up almost one-fifth of total sales.
  • The UK government has denied claims that the recent trade deal with the US allows the US a veto on any potential Chinese investment into the UK.
  • 13 out of 66 EV car brands on sale in the UK are Chinese, including BYD, Geely, MG, Ora, Polestar, Volvo, and XPENG.

Statistics:

  • 94,168 new cars from Chinese brands were sold in the UK in 2024, making up almost one-fifth of total sales.
  • 1.8% of the UK car sales market is held by BYD, compared to Elon Musk's Tesla in the same period.
  • 66 EV car brands are on sale in the UK, with 13 of them being Chinese.
  • 13 out of 66 EV car brands on sale in the UK are Chinese.

Sources:

  • A defence industry source who wished to remain anonymous.
  • A document sent by the former Biden administration to UK officials in March 2024.
  • A spokesman for the UK Government.
  • The i Paper.