China Could Deploy Spy Network on Wheels Through Canadian Border

Chinese electric vehicles could be entering the United States through Canada loaded with surveillance technology that tracks American drivers and maps critical infrastructure, according to Gordon Chang, author and China analyst who spoke ahead of this week’s talks between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Chang told Fox Business that Chinese-made EVs function as “rolling spy machines” capable of collecting vast amounts of data on their owners and surroundings. The vehicles’ built-in sensors, cameras, and connectivity systems can record travel patterns, photograph neighborhoods, and transmit information back to servers controlled by Chinese companies—and potentially the Chinese government.

The warning comes as Chinese automakers look to circumvent U.S. tariffs and security restrictions by routing vehicles through Canada and Mexico. Under current trade agreements, cars assembled in these countries can enter the U.S. market with fewer barriers than direct imports from China.

Chang pointed to the extensive data collection capabilities standard in modern electric vehicles. GPS systems track every destination. Cameras designed for parking assistance and self-driving features continuously scan streets and buildings. Microphones in cabin voice controls can record conversations. All this information flows through software systems that Chinese manufacturers control.

The security concern extends beyond individual privacy. If thousands of Chinese EVs spread across American roads, they could collectively map military bases, power plants, government facilities, and transportation choke points. That intelligence would be invaluable to Beijing in any future conflict.

U.S. officials have already banned Chinese EVs from government fleets over these exact concerns. The Commerce Department is investigating whether to impose broader restrictions on Chinese-connected vehicle technology, with a decision expected later this year.

But the Canadian route presents a problem. Under USMCA trade rules, vehicles assembled in North America qualify for tariff-free entry even if Chinese companies own the factories and provide the technology. Several Chinese automakers have announced plans for Canadian production facilities.

Chang’s comments arrive as Trump prepares to meet with Xi, with trade and technology security high on the agenda. The administration has already imposed steep tariffs on Chinese goods and restricted technology transfers in semiconductors and telecommunications.

For American car buyers, the message is clear: that bargain-priced electric SUV from a Chinese brand might cost more than the sticker price. It could be sending your daily commute, your home address, and your neighborhood directly to Beijing.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/media/gordon-chang-warns-chinese-evs-entering-us-via-canada-could-become-rolling-spy-machines – May 12, 2026