Senate Panel Advances Bill Targeting Chinese-Linked Vehicles

A bipartisan bill aimed at tightening restrictions on Chinese-linked automakers has advanced in the Senate Commerce Committee as lawmakers seek to strengthen protections for the U.S. auto industry.

The legislation, introduced by Republican Senator Bernie Moreno and Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin, would formally establish restrictions first proposed under the Biden administration.

According to the report, the measure would bar vehicle sales by automakers that are more than 15 percent owned by Chinese entities.

Senator Moreno said the proposal is intended to protect America's industrial base from growing foreign competition.

Mercedes-Benz is reportedly seeking changes to the ownership provision as discussions continue over software and vehicle connectivity standards.

Meanwhile, General Motors and Ford are shifting production of some China-made models to the United States, while Waymo has said it will explore using a Detroit-based manufacturer for future vehicle platforms.

Related Tweet:

US Senate panel approves China vehicle crackdown Bill that could hit Mercedes-Benz https://t.co/TcSlXX2ND6

— The Straits Times (@straits_times) July 22, 2026

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