Chinese lidar manufacturer Hesai Technology is facing new allegations that it represents a cybersecurity threat to US companies, including those with business relationships involving Nvidia.
The claims add another layer of geopolitical friction to the semiconductor supply chain, targeting a key player in the physical artificial intelligence infrastructure that powers autonomous vehicles and robotics.
The accusations come as US authorities broaden their focus on potential security vulnerabilities within the hardware ecosystem supporting AI development.
Hesai, which was previously blacklisted by the US Department of Defense in 2024 as a Chinese military entity, is now being scrutinized for its connections to US firms that rely on Nvidia’s technology stack.
This development underscores the growing tension between commercial innovation and national security concerns in the tech sector.
The situation reflects a wider pattern of regulatory pressure on Chinese technology firms operating in or supplying the US market.