Controversy is brewing in the United Kingdom after local media revealed that the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL), an agency under the British government, had compiled a report warning that the widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) could threaten national security.
The core concern centers around the possibility that Chinese-manufactured EVs—or vehicles equipped with Chinese communication hardware or components—could be used for eavesdropping and intelligence gathering.
EVs Described as “Moving Spy Devices”
EVs equipped with Chinese-made components are also a threat
According to a report by the Telegraph, the DSTL analyzed potential cybersecurity risks and data leakage scenarios related to the UK’s plan to convert 40,000 government vehicles to EVs by the end of 2027.
A senior member of the Conservative Party described EVs as essentially “moving spy devices,” highlighting the risk of conversations among passengers being transmitted externally.
EVs are no longer mere transportation tools—they are interconnected smart devices that constantly exchange various forms of data via wireless networks.
This means that sensitive information, such as in-vehicle conversations and location data that constantly exchange behavior, could be transmitted to third parties via communication systems.
The warning is especially significant because it applies not only to EVs made in China. Even vehicles produced by Western manufacturers are deemed risky if they contain Chinese-made sensors, communication modules, or software.
Charles Parton, a special advisor to the UK Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, also expressed strong concern, stating that if a vehicle’s communication module is based on Chinese technology, conversations between government ministers could be transmitted and leaked in real time.
UK Maintains EV Transition Policy—Military Sites Impose Some Restrictions
Despite the DSTL’s concerns, the UK government has affirmed its commitment to transitioning all government vehicles to zero-emission EVs. As of now, there are no official bans on the purchase of Chinese-manufactured EVs.
However, limited restrictions are reportedly being implemented at certain sensitive military facilities, where vehicles containing Chinese-made components are being denied entry.
These rules also apply to conventional internal combustion engine vehicles, with the military categorizing vehicle access based on the country of origin of key components—effectively a form of security clearance based on supply chain sources.
Security Debate Intensifies Amid Global EV Expansion
This issue is not unique to the UK. With Chinese components and technologies becoming widespread globally, similar concerns are being raised across the United States and several European nations.
The U.S., for example, has already restricted the use of Chinese-made CCTV and communication devices in government procurement. Japan and Australia are reportedly preparing similar measures.
While EVs are often associated with clean energy and carbon neutrality, the growing focus on technological security and data sovereignty is reshaping the conversation.
As cars evolve into smart, connected platforms, they are increasingly held to security standards once reserved for IT equipment.
Will This Accelerate the Shift Away from Chinese Technology?
The DSTL’s latest report is expected to accelerate efforts across Europe to exclude Chinese parts and further the trend of decoupling from Chinese technology.
Vehicles used for military purposes or by high-ranking government officials will likely require 100% non-Chinese components and communication modules.
In the future, a vehicle’s cybersecurity level may no longer be seen as an optional feature but as a strategic national standard.
This shift in awareness is expected to influence consumer perceptions of EVs and signal significant changes to the automotive industry’s vehicle cybersecurity levels.
Further debate and policy development seem inevitable as the issue becomes intertwined with national security, cybersecurity, and international diplomacy.
