What the report says
Connected cars use mobile data modules to send and receive information, including over-the-air (OTA) software updates. The committee says this "creates the risk of manufacturers controlling or disabling ('bricking') the devices remotely", and that remote control of connected vehicles is a particular concern "given the potential risk to life".
It also notes that connected cars collect data through sensors such as cameras and microphones, and that Chinese firms are required by law to cooperate with the Chinese state on what it considers national security matters.
The report gives figures on how fast Chinese brands are growing:
- Chinese firms make up 79% of the global market for cellular internet of things modules, the parts that connect devices, including cars, to mobile networks.
- Chinese car brands' UK market share doubled between March 2025 and March 2026.
- Researchers quoted in the report say Chinese-built models made up about 30% of the more than 470,000 electric cars sold in the UK in 2025.
What the report does not say
- It is not a ban. The proposed ban covers high-risk connected tech in critical national infrastructure, such as government and emergency service fleets, not cars bought by the public.
- It does not say UK cars are being spied on or controlled. The risks it describes are possibilities. The report quotes Professor Ciaran Martin, former head of the National Cyber Security Centre, saying that, according to the US government, there is no sign China intends to activate any "digital booby traps".
- The risk is not only Chinese. The committee says connected vehicles can also be hacked by criminals, and that "the risk does not stem entirely from the use of Chinese components".
- The bus example has a caveat. The report cites research finding a Chinese-made Yutong bus could be reached remotely for updates, but notes that OTA updates are not available for Yutong buses sold in the UK, where updates can only be carried out in person.
Where the government stands
The government has two months to respond to the report. The committee criticises ministers for opposing amendments to the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill that would have created a register of high-risk countries. The government said it prefers suppliers "to be assessed on a case-by-case basis, rather than by designating nations themselves as hostile actors". Product security rules already apply to connected devices under the PSTI Regulations 2023.
If you are buying a connected car
This applies to any connected car, not only Chinese brands:
- Read the privacy settings. Check what data the car and its app collect, and switch off sharing you do not need.
- Keep software up to date, as updates can fix security weaknesses.
- Buying used? Make sure the previous owner has removed the car from their app account, and reset the infotainment system to clear their data and paired phones.
- Check the basics: run a free MOT history check, check for recalls, and use our used car checklist.
Questions drivers ask
Are Chinese cars being banned in the UK?
No. A Commons committee has recommended banning high-risk connected tech, including connected vehicles, from critical national infrastructure such as government and emergency service fleets. It has not proposed a ban for private buyers, and these are recommendations, not law.
Can a car be controlled remotely?
The committee says over-the-air updates create a risk that manufacturers could control or disable connected devices remotely. It does not say this has happened to any car in the UK.
What did MPs recommend about connected cars?
A plan with UK telecoms firms to monitor and regulate data traffic between connected vehicles in the UK and foreign entities, starting with vehicles used by government, defence and the emergency services, with a progress report in a year.
How much of the UK EV market is Chinese-built?
Researchers quoted in the report say Chinese-built models made up about 30% of the more than 470,000 electric cars sold in the UK in 2025.
Sources
Facts checked against the sources above on 4 November 2026. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
