U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) has made an appeal to President Joe Biden, urging the administration to implement a ban on Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs) to protect the American auto industry and national security. In a strongly worded letter, Brown conveyed his concerns about the economic and security challenges posed by Chinese automakers, which he claims are heavily subsidized by the Chinese government.

Senator Brown highlighted the potential for unfair competition and job losses, stating, “Chinese electric vehicles are an existential threat to the American auto industry.” He argued that existing tariffs are not sufficient to counter what he views as aggressive and potentially damaging actions by China against U.S. manufacturing and workers, particularly those represented by the United Autoworkers (UAW).

Brown's letter emphasizes the significant price difference between American-made EVs and their Chinese counterparts, such as the "Seagull" electric hatchback produced by BYD, currently the world's largest electric car maker, which sells for less than $10,000 USD. He suggests that China's strategy of setting up factories in Mexico is another example of how Chinese automakers are trying to circumvent U.S. trade policies.

Apart from economic concerns, Brown raised alarms about the national security implications of allowing Chinese EVs into the United States. He pointed out the sophisticated technology embedded in EVs, including apps, sensors, and cameras, that could potentially provide the Chinese government with access to a wealth of data, ranging from traffic patterns to critical infrastructure insights.

Brown also encouraged the use of trade tools such as Section 421 (China Safeguard) of the Trade Act of 1974 or other authorities to prevent Chinese EVs from entering the U.S. market.

As of the release of this letter, there are no Chinese EVs for sale in the United States, and Senator Brown is adamant that this should remain the case.

Senator Brown's Letter

Zerohedge Article