Mercedes-Benz could face US ban under Senate bill targeting Chinese-owned automakers - Fox Business

What the report says

Fox Business reported that Mercedes-Benz could be affected by a Senate proposal aimed at restricting connected vehicles tied to China. The measure, advanced last week by the Senate Commerce Committee, would prohibit U.S. sales of connected vehicles from companies with more than 15% ownership by Chinese entities. Fox Business said Mercedes-Benz may fall within that threshold because two Chinese investors together hold close to 20% of the German automaker.

The bipartisan bill is sponsored by Sens. Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., and Bernie Moreno, R-Ohio. Supporters argue it would strengthen and broaden Biden-era limits on Chinese-origin vehicles, software and components, citing concerns that connected cars could collect data from U.S. roads and expose it to Beijing. Moreno also framed the measure as a way to protect U.S. manufacturing and national security.

Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, who chairs the Commerce Committee, warned the bill could effectively block Mercedes-Benz from the U.S. market unless revised. He said lawmakers would not intentionally consider banning Mercedes-Benz sales, and accused General Motors of backing provisions that could disadvantage competitors. GM denied targeting any single company and said it supports policies that bolster U.S. manufacturing and competitiveness.

Mercedes-Benz told Fox Business it supports national security legislation but wants to ensure any law does not disrupt its U.S. operations, employees, dealers, suppliers or customers. The bill includes a Commerce Department authorization process for vehicles that would otherwise be barred. Fox Business noted the proposal still needs approval from the full Senate, the House and the president before it can become law.