Israel Suspends Chinese EVs Over Cybersecurity Concerns

Israel's defense ministry has suspended the use of Chinese-made electric vehicles, including those by BYD, over serious cybersecurity concerns. The announcement earlier this week comes amid growing concerns that connected car technology could be used for espionage. The ban follows warnings from cybersecurity experts who say sensors and software in Chinese EVs could give Beijing insight into Israel's most sensitive military routines. Israel has already barred Chinese-made cars from military bases for similar reasons. Since late 2025, the military has begun phasing out the use of Chinese EVs by senior Israeli officers. In addition, reports say that the Israeli military recalled roughly 700 Chinese-made EVs since 2022. Officials point to the car's connected systems and cameras. They say the vehicles could potentially transmit sensitive data back to China or even allow remote control. Security experts warn that devices connected to the internet, especially electric vehicles, can serve as data-collecting platforms that foreign governments could exploit. And by law, Chinese companies must share its collected data with the Chinese regime when requested, making these vehicles dangerous for commercial use. Data from the Israel Imported Vehicles Association shows Chinese EVs accounted for more than a third of all new car registrations in the third quarter of 2025. Experts warn that Israel may need to consider recalling all Chinese-linked EVs to protect national security.