PILLAR NZ Raises National Security Concerns Over Chinese-Made Smart Vehicles

PILLAR NZ is raising concerns about the rapid rise of Chinese-made electronic and smart vehicles in New Zealand, warning they may pose significant risks to national security, privacy, and democratic integrity.

Recent developments across like-minded liberal democracies signal growing concern. Partners in the United Kingdom and Canada have raised alarms about the potential surveillance risks associated with Chinese-made electric vehicles, highlighting an issue that both New Zealanders and Parliament should take seriously.

The Australian Strategic Policy Institute has also been warning of these risks since 2024, noting that “Chinese electric vehicles are a rolling security threat.”

In late 2025, the United Kingdom Ministry of Defence echoed similar concerns, pointing to the surveillance capabilities of these vehicles. Often described as “computers on wheels,” modern electric vehicles are equipped with extensive data collection and connectivity features.

PILLAR NZ is also highlighting concerns around remote control capabilities, including vehicle immobilisation features, sometimes referred to as “kill switches.” If misused, these functions could disrupt transport systems or leave drivers without control. Similar concerns have previously been raised in relation to New Zealand’s public transport bus fleet and the Cook Strait Interislander ferry.

“In today’s security environment, these are no longer just cars. They are data platforms with the capacity to collect, store, and transmit sensitive personal and geolocation information,” said Nathan Seiuli, Executive Director of PILLAR NZ.

“If left unaddressed, this technology presents a real risk to New Zealand’s national security, data sovereignty, and the privacy of everyday New Zealanders.”

PILLAR NZ is calling for a formal Government inquiry into the national security implications of Chinese-made smart vehicles and will be writing to relevant ministers. 

“New Zealand must ensure that the technology we adopt does not become a point of vulnerability,” Seiuli said.

“We are urging the Government to take this issue seriously, review the risks, and strengthen data protection safeguards for the sake of our national security, our democracy, and our freedom.”

www.nzpillar.com