This is a level of protectionism that makes very little sense from a consumer standpoint but a lot of sense from a US corporate standpoint.

Software is the driving force of nearly all future consumer devices, especially EVs. Like iOS is to $Apple (AAPL.US)$ , proprietary software that allows devices to function the way they should and provide the desired experience is critical to a product's success. It cannot just be discarded or replicated by another to suit particular markets.

For instance, the BYD Intelligent Voice command software is one of the best in the market, rivaling the voice software offered by far more premium brands. They offer a level of safety and convenience that would make the cars significantly less appealing without.

Many Chinese EV makers have made significant advancements in ADAS software to prepare for semi-autonomous/autonomous driving functionality. These ADAS systems are said to be superior to anything available in the US, including Tesla's.

Tariffs alone won't stop Chinese EVs like $BYD COMPANY (01211.HK)$ $NIO-SW (09866.HK)$ $XPENG-W (09868.HK)$ $LI AUTO-W (02015.HK)$ from entering the US market. Even at a slight premium at the dealership, there will be consumers who'd like to try out something new for sure. And this could generate significant buzz given the level of quality Chinese EVs now have.

So, what it appears to be is an attempt to hobble Chinese EV functionality through software/hardware bans. The beneficiary? None other than Western carmakers like $Tesla (TSLA.US)$ $Ford Motor (F.US)$ $General Motors (GM.US)$ $Toyota Motor (TM.US)$ $Lucid Group (LCID.US)$ $Rivian Automotive (RIVN.US)$