US Military Prohibits BYD Electric Vehicles at Kadena Air Base Over Security Risks
The US military has banned BYD electric vehicles from Kadena Air Base in Japan, citing security concerns over sensors and ties to China's military.
POLICY WIRE — Seoul, South Korea — The United States armed forces have implemented a formal ban on electric vehicles manufactured by the Chinese firm BYD at Kadena Air Base in Japan. This directive, reported by South Korea’s Yonhap news agency on Friday, stems from heightened security apprehensions regarding the company’s technology.
The prohibition applies to all BYD vehicles, including those operated by base personnel, commercial entities, and contractors. Officials have specifically identified potential security vulnerabilities linked to the cameras and sensors integrated into the vehicles.
This measure follows a decision by Washington in June to include BYD on a list of enterprises alleged to provide support to China’s military. According to the report, the base is scheduled to begin turning away all BYD vehicles starting October 26.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
