Chinese SUV Test Signals Threat to US Automakers

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Automotive review platform Edmunds has tested a Chinese SUV for the first time and concluded that U.S. automakers face a credible competitive threat from China’s rapidly advancing vehicle technology.

The vehicle evaluated was the Geely Galaxy M9, produced by Geely. Despite being largely unavailable in the U.S. due to tariffs and regulatory barriers, the model was tested extensively in California, including a full 227-point assessment covering performance, range and usability.

Edmunds reported that the SUV delivers features and technology that rival — and in some cases exceed — vehicles currently sold in the U.S. market. The model includes a large infotainment display, advanced in-car features such as a built-in refrigerator and entertainment systems, and a hybrid system capable of delivering an estimated 800+ miles of range.

Notably, the Galaxy M9 starts at around $25,000 in China, yet performs comparably to significantly more expensive vehicles such as the Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride and Toyota Grand Highlander.

Although Chinese vehicles are effectively blocked from the U.S. market by tariffs approaching 100%, consumer interest is rising. Some buyers are reportedly exploring ways to import such vehicles indirectly through neighboring markets.

Industry analysts attribute China’s rapid progress to intense domestic competition, which has driven manufacturers to deliver highly advanced vehicles at aggressive price points. Meanwhile, Western automakers are beginning to respond, with companies like Ford and Stellantis planning new hybrid models to stay competitive.

The findings highlight a broader concern: if trade barriers ease or global competition intensifies further, Chinese automakers could significantly disrupt established markets.

US Lawmakers Push New Chip Export Curbs Targeting China

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A bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers has proposed new legislation to tighten export restrictions on semiconductor manufacturing equipment destined for China, escalating efforts to maintain U.S. leadership in artificial intelligence.

The draft MATCH Act would expand controls on advanced chipmaking tools, directly impacting companies such as ASML and Nikon, which dominate key segments like deep ultraviolet (DUV) lithography systems.

The proposal specifically targets equipment used to produce advanced chips, aiming to block access for major Chinese firms including SMIC, Huawei and other leading domestic chipmakers.

Unlike previous export controls introduced through executive actions, this initiative originates in Congress and seeks to align restrictions across allied countries, ensuring foreign suppliers adhere to similar limitations as U.S. companies.

Currently, Dutch regulations already prevent ASML from exporting its most advanced chipmaking tools to China. However, the company continues to sell less advanced DUV systems. The proposed law would extend restrictions to cover these products as well, potentially cutting off a significant portion of China’s access to critical semiconductor equipment.

China has been a major market for ASML, accounting for roughly one-third of its sales in 2025, though this share is expected to decline. The proposed legislation underscores intensifying technological competition between the United States and China, particularly in strategic sectors such as AI and semiconductor manufacturing.

Amazon Eyes $9B Globalstar Deal to Challenge Starlink

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Amazon is reportedly in talks to acquire satellite communications firm Globalstar in a deal valued at around $9 billion, as it accelerates efforts to compete in the low-Earth-orbit satellite market.

Globalstar, which provides voice, data and asset-tracking services through its satellite network, has seen its market value rise sharply over the past year. The potential acquisition would strengthen Amazon’s position in space-based connectivity as it expands its satellite initiative, known as Project Kuiper.

A key complication in the negotiations is Apple’s roughly 20% stake in Globalstar, requiring coordination between Amazon and Apple as part of any potential agreement.

The move is widely seen as a strategic push to rival Starlink, operated by SpaceX. Starlink currently leads the market with thousands of satellites in orbit and millions of global users.

Amazon has launched hundreds of satellites so far under its own program and aims to scale rapidly to serve enterprise, government and consumer markets. The company is seeking to close the gap with SpaceX as demand for global satellite internet and connectivity services continues to grow.

Discussions are ongoing, and no final agreement has been confirmed.