US Senate Committee to Vote on Bill Threatening Mercedes-Benz Sales Over Chinese Ownership

A powerful US Senate committee is set to vote on legislation that could bar Mercedes-Benz from selling cars in the United States. The proposed Connected Vehicle Security Act targets automakers more than 15% owned by Chinese groups, citing national security concerns related to surveillance, espionage, and disruption of critical infrastructure. Mercedes-Benz, 20% owned by Chinese entities, has been lobbying against the bill, highlighting its significant US footprint and job creation. The legislation also aims to ban the import of battery systems from China's CATL, the world's largest battery maker, reflecting growing US-China rivalry in technology and trade.