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Waymo Finds a Way Around US Restrictions Targeting Chinese Cars

Jan 17, 2025 - wired.com
This week, the Biden administration finalized rules banning Chinese and Russian-connected vehicle technology from American roads, citing national security concerns. The prohibitions on software will start in 2027, with hardware restrictions following in 2029. This move is part of a broader effort to protect American vehicles from foreign interference. Despite these new regulations, Waymo, Alphabet’s self-driving tech developer, remains confident that its partnership with Chinese automaker Zeekr will not be affected. Waymo argues that its vehicles should be exempt from the new rules since all connected technology onboard is American-owned and installed after the vehicles are delivered to the U.S. as "base vehicles."

Currently, Waymo operates its self-driving ride-hail service using modified Jaguar I-Pace electric vehicles in cities like Phoenix, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, with plans to expand to Atlanta and Austin. The company has also partnered with Hyundai to incorporate modified Ioniq 5s into its fleet. While Waymo is optimistic about navigating the new tech bans, it remains vigilant about potential 100 percent tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, which were finalized by the Biden administration last fall. Despite these challenges, Waymo's plans remain on track, according to spokesperson Ethan Teicher.

Key takeaways:

  • The US has finalized rules banning Chinese and Russian-connected vehicle tech from American roads, starting with software in 2027 and hardware in 2029.
  • Waymo's partnership with Chinese automaker Zeekr is expected to continue unaffected by the new rules, as Waymo argues its vehicles use American-owned technology.
  • Waymo currently operates its self-driving service with modified Jaguar I-Pace vehicles and plans to add Hyundai Ioniq 5s to its fleet.
  • There is uncertainty about whether Waymo's new vehicles will be subject to 100 percent tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, but the company is monitoring the situation closely.
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