Chinese EVs Pose Threat to Australian Market and National Security: One Nation Calls for Urgent Action

Australia is at risk of becoming a dumping ground for excess Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), and the implications go far beyond market competition. With an influx of low-cost EV brands like BYD, Chery, and Zeekr flooding our shores, the Australian market is set for what experts are calling a “bloodbath,” but One Nation has deeper concerns. Beyond economic instability, these Chinese-made vehicles pose serious national security risks that are being ignored.

Australia’s lack of tariffs and barriers has made it a prime target for foreign carmakers, particularly those from China. According to reliable sources, countries like the United States and Europe have moved swiftly to introduce tariffs and legislation aimed at protecting their markets, but Australia’s free-for-all approach leaves us exposed. As Mitsubishi Motors Australia chief executive Shaun Westcott recently warned, “There’s going to be a plethora of new brands with excess capacity looking to dump their cars here.”

While Australians may be lured by cheaper prices and tech-savvy options,T these vehicles come with hidden dangers. Chinese EVs have been flagged for potential security risks due to advanced technological capabilities embedded in their systems. Numerous reports have indicated that many Chinese EVs have built-in technology that allows for remote control or even detonation of the vehicles. This raises a red flag, particularly given China's track record of using technology as a tool for surveillance and control.

One Nation stands firm on protecting Australians from this growing threat. These vehicles, often labeled as "smart" and affordable, may offer more than just a set of wheels—they could be equipped with backdoor mechanisms that compromise our national security. Recent investigations in the U.S. and Europe have shown that these vehicles can potentially be controlled remotely by foreign entities, posing significant risks on Australian roads.

Adding to the concern is the fact that Chinese EVs are heavily subsidised by their government, further disrupting fair competition in the market. While local automakers will struggle to keep up, the real threat comes from the fact that we don’t know who truly controls these vehicles once they’re on our roads.

One Nation is calling for immediate action. The unchecked import of Chinese-made EVs, combined with their potential as security vulnerabilities, is a risk Australia cannot afford to take lightly. We urge the federal government to introduce control mechanisms and tighter security regulations on all imported vehicles, especially those from China. We must safeguard our markets and protect Australians from the hidden dangers posed by foreign technology.

As we see the rapid influx of these vehicles into the country, we cannot afford to turn a blind eye. For those wondering why the major parties remain silent on this issue—just take a look at who benefits when these cars flood our market. One Nation will continue to fight for the protection of Australian jobs, families, and security.

Your vote can help us ensure that Australia stays in control of its future—not China.