UK Defence Firms Warn Staff Against Charging Phones in Chinese EVs

UK defence companies are warning employees not to connect their mobile phones to Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs) due to concerns about possible espionage and data theft by Beijing. Firms such as BAE Systems, Rolls Royce, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin, and Thales have implemented measures including bans on phone connections via Bluetooth or charging cables and restrictions on parking Chinese EVs at sensitive sites. These precautions follow Ministry of Defence actions to keep such vehicles away from military bases, citing vulnerabilities in 'connected' EV technology that could transmit data externally. The increasing market share of affordable Chinese EVs in the UK has heightened security concerns, especially given China's National Intelligence Law requiring companies to cooperate with state intelligence work if requested. While some industry voices argue that the risk is more general and not limited to China, experts note the historical context of Chinese espionage targeting critical sectors. Chinese carmakers deny allegations of spying, but the defence sector remains vigilant due to the potential national security implications.