Weeks after the announcement by Ottawa permitting a limited number of Chinese-manufactured vehicles to enter the Canadian market, concerns have been raised regarding potential data privacy risks. However, this does not seem to deter consumers searching for new cars.
At the Canadian International AutoShow, Dianne Dougall and Pat Shephard, considering a new electric vehicle to replace their Tesla, expressed interest in Chinese-made EVs. They mentioned that privacy concerns were not a deterrent as data storage across various countries, including the United States, raised similar issues.
Debbie Perriccioli from Waterdown, Ont., also exploring options at the auto show as her lease nears expiration, shared a similar sentiment. She indicated that privacy concerns were a thing of the past and would not discourage her from purchasing a Chinese-made vehicle.
A survey conducted by Leger between Jan. 30 and Feb. 2 revealed that 61% of Canadians supported the introduction of Chinese EVs into the market. Notably, more respondents cited worries about vehicle quality and impacts on the Canadian auto industry (both at 38%) compared to concerns about privacy and security (33%).
Experts interviewed by CBC News highlighted that data security is a significant issue for modern connected vehicles, irrespective of their country of origin. They pointed out that Canada’s privacy laws are not robust enough to shield consumers from potential data sharing with the manufacturing country, including China.
Describing vehicles as “computers on wheels,” David Masson, Vice President and Field Chief Information Security Officer at Darktrace, emphasized that the origin of the vehicle, be it electric or traditional, did not alter the data security concerns.
China’s enactment of national security and intelligence laws over the past decade, which require cooperation with the government, has raised red flags. Similarly, the Cloud Act in the U.S. mandates technology companies to share foreign-gathered data upon government request.
Criticism of the deal allowing Chinese vehicles into Canada has been voiced by political figures like Pierre Poilievre and Doug Ford, with concerns raised about potential surveillance capabilities. Industry leaders, including Brian Kingston, CEO of the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association, have also expressed apprehension about security and trade-related issues.
Addressing the concerns, Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree mentioned that the vehicles would need to comply with Canadian security standards before being sold in the country. However, experts like Beth-Anne Schuelke-Leech highlighted the absence of a robust system to ensure data protection and privacy.
The only major Chinese automaker, BYD, is currently registered to import passenger cars into Canada according to Transport Canada. Despite this, concerns persist about the potential implications on national security and the domestic auto sector.
Notably, concerns raised by leaders about economic national security and the impact on the Canadian automobile market overshadow fears about data security breaches. Analysts like Stephanie Carvin emphasize the need for Canadian manufacturers to compete on a level playing field without state subsidies benefiting foreign companies.
In conclusion, while data privacy remains a crucial consideration, the broader implications of introducing Chinese-made vehicles into the Canadian market extend beyond individual privacy concerns.
