SAFE and ReMo Applaud Commerce Department Action

Washington, D.C.— In response to the Commerce Department’s announcement of an investigation into Chinese vehicles, components, and software, Avery Ash, Executive Director of the Coalition for Reimagined Mobility (an initiative of SAFE), issued the following statement:

“It’s welcome news to see the Biden Administration taking concrete action today to understand and address the national security risks of connected vehicle technology designed, sold, and controlled by companies beholden to the People’s Republic of China. Advanced vehicle technologies will define the automotive and transportation sectors for the next 100 years and it’s essential that the U.S. act to maintain (and in some cases reclaim) our position as the global leader in this industry.

We expect U.S. Commerce Department’s investigation will document these threats as fundamental and pernicious; the PRC is cornering and leveraging key supply chains to geopolitical and economic ends, establishing access to remote data collection for strategic intelligence, opening vulnerabilities to cyber-attacks on U.S. soil, and more.

The alarm bells have been going off and it’s about time Washington woke up to the scope and urgency of this national security risk. We look forward to working with the Commerce Department, Administration, and leaders in Congress to focus attention and action on this topic.”

Last month, SAFE’s Coalition for Reimagined Mobility (ReMo) published Unlocking 21st Century Mobility System: How to Rethink the Future of Mobility and Restore Leadership in Transportation Innovation. The report highlighted these risks and documented the extent of catchup needed from the U.S. government and industry.

Prior to joining SAFE and the Coalition for Reimagined Mobility, Ash led Global Public Policy and Product Strategy at INRIX, a traffic data company.

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About the Coalition for Reimagined Mobility

The Coalition for Reimagined Mobility (ReMo) is a global initiative of SAFE, advancing outcomes to shape transportation systems that are better for people and planet. Bringing together stakeholders across transportation, technology, and sustainability, ReMo conducts research and policy advocacy in the U.S. and Europe to create more efficient, sustainable, and secure ways to move people and goods. For more information visit reimaginedmobility.org.

About SAFE

SAFE is an action-oriented, nonpartisan organization committed to transportation and energy policy solutions that advance the economic and national security of the United States, its partners, and allies. SAFE has convened business and former military leaders since 2004 to advocate for secure, resilient, and sustainable energy solutions. Visit secureenergy.org to learn more. 

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