A new report from the Macdonald-Laurier Institute warns that Canada's openness to Chinese electric vehicles poses a significant national security risk. Energy and national-security specialist Brenda Shaffer argues that China is employing hybrid warfare tactics, embedding surveillance and disruption capabilities within its exports. This approach blurs the lines between domestic policy and national defense, potentially causing public panic through disruptions. Canada has significantly reduced tariffs on Chinese EVs, allowing substantial imports under a new trade agreement. This move is despite internal government warnings about the data collection capabilities of connected vehicles from "high-risk vendors." The concerns extend beyond cars, citing hidden communications equipment in Chinese cranes and solar inverters. While countries like Lithuania have banned Chinese inverters, Canada has not imposed similar restrictions. Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre advocates for prohibiting Chinese vehicles near sensitive infrastructure. The United States has expressed strong opposition, vowing to block these vehicles from entering their market. Former diplomat Michael Kovrig describes the deal as a "trifecta of risks," including structural dependence and the weaponization of technology. Despite these warnings, the Canadian government is actively pursuing deeper cooperation with Chinese EV manufacturers. Beijing views this pivot as significant, with Chinese state media approvingly reporting on Canada's commitment to increased trade. The arrival of Chinese electric vehicles marks a notable step in Canada's evolving trade relationship with China.