Volvo Receives U.S. Authorization to Import Vehicles With Chinese Connected Technology

U.S. Department of Commerce that exempts the automaker from a ban on Chinese-connected vehicle technology. The Swedish company, majority owned by China's Geely Holding, said Tuesday that it received specific authorization to continue importing and selling vehicles with Chinese connected car technology in the United States.

Connected car technology covers software for phone syncing and some automated driving features. Bloomberg first reported the special authorization. Volvo was subject to rules finalized in January 2025 that block vehicles equipped with software and hardware developed by Chinese companies, citing national security concerns.

The software ban applies to 2027 model-year vehicles.

A separate hardware ban begins with 2030 model-year vehicles. The rule also prohibits Chinese companies from testing autonomous vehicles in the United States. Volvo vehicles are primarily made in Sweden and imported to the United States. The EX90 is assembled at the company's South Carolina factory.

Volvo's ownership ties to Geely and its manufacturing operations in China placed it under the restrictions.

U.S. officials regarding governance, technology, and data security. S. expansion plans. In September 2025 Volvo announced plans to add the XC60 mid-size SUV and a new hybrid vehicle to production at the South Carolina factory. In March the company said it will bring all production of the Polestar 3 electric vehicle to the same facility. The Polestar 3 is currently also produced in Chengdu, China.