Henan Driver Liu's EV Remote-Locked After Crossing Into Kazakhstan

Liu, a driver from Henan Province, set out on a summer self‑drive tour through Central Asia with his new electric SUV. After passing the Horgos border post in Xinjiang and entering Kazakhstan on July 16, the car’s manufacturer remotely locked the vehicle’s infotainment system for more than 30 hours. The lock disabled navigation, music, smart controls, the storage compartment and even the oil‑tank cap, leaving only basic driving possible.

Liu was required to submit customs documents, his passport, the purchase contract, invoice, international driving licence and visa to obtain a temporary unlock. The manufacturer said the vehicle‑module is authorised for use only within China and is locked abroad to prevent illegal resale or theft. Liu had informed the dealership of his cross‑border plans but received no warning about the risk. After the unlock, he continued his journey into Russia. The incident has spurred public debate in China over remote control of electric vehicles and consumer‑rights protections.