Retired Rear Adm. Mark Montgomery has expressed concern over China’s “operational preparation of the environment,” as Ford Motor Company plans to contract technology and software from Chinese firms with ties to the Chinese government, military, and North Korean government. These revelations were brought to light by Republican investigators, adding to the ongoing joint investigation into Ford’s partnership with Chinese electric vehicle battery maker Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL). The involvement of these Chinese firms in the design and construction of a proposed EV battery factory in Michigan raises serious concerns about national security.
Republican leaders, Rep. Mike Gallagher and Energy and Commerce Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers, have reviewed Ford’s agreements with CATL and discovered that four Chinese firms will be closely involved in the project. They have raised alarm bells about Ford using the same cloud integration and data provider linked to North Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs sanctions evasion activity. The lawmakers argue that this software could compromise the security system of the Ford plant and pose a risk to American data privacy rights. They have called on Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to investigate possible sanctions evasion activity conducted by the unidentified Chinese firms.
In addition, the Republicans have sent a letter to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, requesting the Bureau of Industry and Security to investigate the four unnamed software service providers. They urge the agency to consider placing these companies on a list of entities subject to significant U.S. trade restrictions. The lawmakers highlight the direct ties of these companies to the People’s Liberation Army, the Chinese Communist Party, China’s Ministry of Public Security, the ongoing genocide of Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang, and the North Korean government.
Ford has responded to the concerns by stating that they are committed to following all government regulations and ensuring their suppliers meet high standards and codes of conduct. They welcome any information that can help maintain the integrity of their supply chains and partners.
The involvement of these Chinese firms in the Ford battery plant project raises serious questions about national security. The Republicans argue that China’s control over domestic electric vehicle production could expose the United States to significant risks amid escalating geopolitical tensions. Critics have voiced concerns about CATL’s extensive ties to the Chinese Communist Party. Despite these concerns, Ford has downplayed the criticism and maintained sole ownership of the plant.
Experts and lawmakers continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the need to safeguard national security and reduce dependence on China in the electric vehicle supply chain. The joint investigation into Ford’s partnership with CATL and the involvement of these Chinese firms underscores the ongoing tensions between the United States and China in the realm of technology and national security.
In conclusion, the revelations surrounding Chinese firms’ involvement in Ford’s battery plant have raised significant concerns over national security. The Republican investigation highlights the potential risks associated with relying on Chinese technology and software providers with ties to the Chinese government and military. As geopolitical tensions escalate, the need to protect American interests and reduce dependence on China becomes increasingly crucial.
