A Hacker Took Control Of A BYD For TV, But Should Should You Be Worried?
carscoops.com Sep 26, 2026

A Hacker Took Control Of A BYD For TV, But Should Should You Be Worried?

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

An Australian documentary examined the cybersecurity of Chinese‑made electric vehicles, focusing on BYD and Xpeng models. Researchers demonstrated that an insider could monitor an Xpeng G6’s location, speed, seat occupancy and steering angle, while a cybersecurity specialist accessed a BYD Shark 6 pickup without a password, remotely locking the driver, controlling lights, wipers and interior microphones, and even extracting personal data from a linked iPhone. The investigation revealed that both manufacturers collect telemetry and user information, which can be transmitted to servers in China. Australian officials, including trade minister Don Farrell and climate minister Chris Bowen, own such vehicles, prompting the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation to warn servants against discussing matters in them. Report underscores security risks linked to adoption of Chinese EVs.

💡 Why It Matters

  • · The ease of remote control exposes drivers to personal safety threats and potential espionage, challenging trust in imported smart cars.