The Senate Commerce Committee advanced a measure that could potentially bar Mercedes-Benz from selling connected vehicles in the U.S. market.
The Senate Commerce Committee advanced a measure that could potentially bar Mercedes-Benz from selling connected vehicles in the U.S. market. The legislation, sponsored by Senators Elissa Slotkin and Bernie Moreno, aims to protect American manufacturing and national security by banning vehicles from companies with more than 15% ownership by Chinese entities. Because two Chinese investors hold nearly 20% of Mercedes-Benz, the German automaker faces a potential ban unless the bill is modified or a waiver is granted. Senator Ted Cruz warned that the bill could effectively shut out Mercedes-Benz from the U.S. market if passed as-is, suggesting that General Motors pushed for the measure to favor its own brand. However, General Motors stated that the legislation supports policies that protect American manufacturing. Mercedes-Benz emphasized its role as a key contributor to the U.S. economy and noted that no single shareholder holds more than 10% of its stock with decision-making authority. The bill must still pass the full Senate and House and be signed by President Trump to become law.