Senate Chinese Car Ban Stalls Over Mercedes Concerns

A bipartisan Senate bill would bar vehicle sales by companies with more than 15% Chinese ownership, aiming to tighten restrictions on Chinese-linked connected vehicles over national security and data-privacy concerns. The proposal could ensnare Mercedes-Benz, whose Chinese investors hold about 20%, but sponsor Bernie Moreno says lawmakers are working on a way for the automaker to keep selling in the United States, arguing its Chinese stakes are passive. Lawmakers are also discussing a path for Geely-owned Volvo, while Aston Martin and Lotus could remain at risk because of their ties to Geely. The bill has faced resistance from Sen. Rand Paul, who says it unfairly targets Mercedes and has linked his support to changes protecting the automaker; reports differ on the timing of further Senate action.