Idaho National Laboratory leads US probe of Chinese lidar sensors
The US is taking a closer look at Chinese-made lidar sensors, the technology that uses laser pulses to measure the distance to nearby objects and offers a high-resolution picture of a self-driving car's immediate surroundings, over worries they could be used for spying or even disabled en masse, disrupting vehicles in motion and bricking ones that aren't.
Idaho National Laboratory is leading the investigation, backed by electric and autonomous vehicle companies who want to make sure these sensors aren't a weak spot for data leaks or hacks.
US lawmakers seek Chinese lidar ban
Some US lawmakers want to ban the use of Chinese lidar on American roads, saying it could open "back doors" for data theft or disruption.
Sen. Tammy Baldwin and Rep. John Moolenaar are especially concerned about national security.
Still, automakers like Rivian are interested in the tech because it's cheaper and are considering making its own lidar sensors in the US by leveraging Chinese tech, possibly as part of a joint venture, even as top suppliers Hesai and RoboSense face restrictions over alleged military ties.