China Bars Tesla Cars From World University Games Amid Xi Jinping's Presence For Security Reasons: Report

As the World University Games are set to commence in Chengdu, China, Tesla TSLA is being treated as a security threat, Teslarati reports.

Security Concerns: As a security measure, Tesla vehicles are prohibited from attending the event where President Xi Jinping is scheduled to appear.

This move comes in the wake of concerns expressed by China since 2021 over Tesla’s exterior cameras and their potential to capture sensitive information.

Musk’s Response: Several years ago, when accusations of spying and data collection surfaced, CEO Elon Musk addressed the concerns by asserting that the company would face closure if it utilized its vehicles to gather sensitive information for political purposes.

“There's a very strong incentive for us to be very confidential with any information. If Tesla used cars to spy in China or anywhere, we will get shut down,” Musk said.

See Also: Elon Musk’s Fan Following Dwindles But Early Tesla Model 3 Owners Remain Loyal, Survey Finds

Continued Surveillance: Despite Musk’s assurances, Tesla vehicles underwent a security review from Chinese officials, primarily focusing on the cameras and the synching of smartphones to the car. Consequently, military members and government officials were banned from driving a Tesla in March 2021.

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