Overview
Volvo Cars has obtained targeted authorization from the Office of Information and Communications Technology and Services to continue importing and offering connected vehicles in the United States under the new supply chain security regulations covering connected vehicles. The permission was issued following consultations between Volvo Car USA and the U.S. Department of Commerce that examined the company's governance, technology and data security arrangements.
Regulatory context and review
The authorization was required under the rule titled "Securing the Information and Communications Technology and Services Supply Chain: Connected Vehicles," which stipulates that sales of connected vehicles be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Volvo Car USA engaged with the Department of Commerce over the company's relevant controls and systems, and the Office of Information and Communications Technology and Services issued the formal approval that enables the automaker to continue its U.S. connected-vehicle operations.
U.S. footprint and production plans
Volvo operates a manufacturing facility in Charleston, South Carolina, where it has invested in excess of $1.3 billion and created more than 2,000 jobs. In September 2025 the company announced intentions to build two additional vehicle models at the South Carolina plant before 2030.
The company also maintains its U.S. headquarters in New Jersey with roughly 400 employees and an additional 200 corporate staff spread across the country. Volvo distributes vehicles through a network of 281 dealers across 48 states and employs about 11,500 people in the United States. Last year marked 70 years of the brand's presence in the U.S., one of its largest markets globally.
Implications stated in authorization
The approval reflects the outcome of the Department of Commerce's review of Volvo's governance, technology and data security measures as they relate to the connected-vehicle rule. Under the regulation, approvals for connected-vehicle sales are not blanket permissions but are subject to specific authorization following review.
Limitations and available information
The information released focuses on the authorization itself, the topics examined during discussions with U.S. authorities, and factual details about Volvo's U.S. investments, staffing and dealer network. The available material does not provide further detail on the particular governance or technical measures reviewed, nor does it describe any additional conditions that may accompany the authorization.
Conclusion
With the authorization in hand, Volvo Cars can continue importing and selling connected vehicles in the U.S. under the terms of the new connected-vehicle supply chain rule after the Department of Commerce's review of the company's governance, technology and data security practices. The company remains a major employer and investor in the United States, with ongoing production plans at its Charleston facility and a widespread dealer and corporate presence across the country.