BMW China parts probe expanded by US Senate panel
What specific banned Chinese parts were found in the BMW Mini Cooper cars imported into the US?
The specific banned Chinese parts found in the BMW Mini Cooper cars imported into the US were electronic components from Sichuan Jingweida Technology Group (JWD). These components were LAN transformers, which help connect cars to different networks, allowing systems like radar, vehicle-to-everything, and advanced driver systems to communicate with servers and the surrounding world.
What steps has BMW taken to halt the importation of products affected by the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act?
BMW has taken several steps to halt the importation of products affected by the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act. In response to the Senate report, BMW stated that it has taken action to bring its cars into compliance with the law. The company has halted the importation of affected products and is conducting a service action with customer and dealer notification for affected motor vehicles36. Additionally, BMW claims that it takes the protection of human rights and prohibitions against forced labor seriously. Once it was notified that the Chinese manufacturer was on the sanctions list, BMW immediately stopped shipment of the affected parts, and all existing inventory containing the component was "quarantined for destruction."
How many BMW Mini Cooper cars containing these banned parts were imported into the US according to Senator Wyden's investigation?
According to Senator Ron Wyden's investigation, at least 8,000 BMW Mini Cooper cars containing banned parts were imported into the US. The parts were made by Chinese firm Sichuan Jingweida Technology Group (JWD), which was added to the UFLPA Entity List in December 2023, indicating its products are likely produced using forced labor.