In a recent Financial Times column, Chris Miller examines the growing tension between Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers and Western regulators — arguing that the real battleground in the global auto industry is not tariffs, but technology.
Although Ford and China’s Xiaomi denied rumors of a potential joint venture, Miller explains why such partnerships make strategic sense: Western automakers need China’s advanced EV and autonomous-driving expertise, while Chinese firms seek access to the lucrative U.S. market.
The primary barrier, however, is not trade tariffs — it is U.S. restrictions on Chinese connectivity systems, including communications chips and autonomous-driving software. American regulators are concerned not only about espionage risks, as connected vehicles collect vast amounts of visual and audio data, but also about the possibility of sabotage through remote access to vehicle systems.
Miller notes that China itself was the first to treat connected cars as security threats, imposing strict data-transfer rules. While Europe initially viewed American concerns as excessive, countries such as Poland and the United Kingdom are now taking similar precautions.
The key takeaway: U.S. connectivity restrictions have become a powerful strategic lever. Unlike Europe’s tariff-based approach — which has not prevented deeper technological reliance on Chinese firms — American rules require Chinese companies to transfer technology and intellectual property if they want market access. This strengthens U.S. automakers and preserves American influence over critical software systems.
Miller argues that weakening these rules would be a mistake. In the evolving EV and autonomous-driving race, control over connectivity — not tariffs — is the most potent source of leverage.
Visit the Financial Times to read the full article.
Professor Chris Miller is a geopolitical expert who talks about the origin, impact, and future of AI. He is the author of Chip War: The Fight for the World’s Most Critical Technology, a book that explains how computer chips have made the modern world—and how the U.S. and China are struggling for control over this fundamental technology. Chip War won Financial Times’ Best Business Book of the Year award. Breaking down the motives behind international politics and economics in a thoughtful and concise manner, Miller provides audiences with fresh, alternative perspectives and leaves them wanting to know more. Contact WWSG to host him at your next event.
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