An unexpected thread is emerging around GAC, the Chinese automaker, as questions arise about remote vehicle diagnostics and data privacy in North American contexts. A Telegram channel called No Limits referenced a statement from the brand’s press service after three crossovers reportedly experienced spontaneous combustion. The channel notes that a dealer maintains ongoing communication with vehicle owners, and that GAC teams in China conduct remote online analyses to accelerate assessments of a car’s technical state.
According to No Limits, the implication is that developers could access or influence a database containing personal data through the cars themselves. The channel suggests that such capability might interest authorities who lease or rent vehicles, and it points to visible indicators on some outboard systems that identify the on-board video recorder. The assertion underscores potential governance and privacy considerations for fleets and individual owners alike.
Earlier, the Telegram outlet highlighted another set of concerns about GAC vehicles in Russia. Users reported windshield or sunroof issues, including a crack that appeared on a trip on a road near Moscow, leaving a hole in the roof. These anecdotes add to broader questions about build integrity and safety across different markets.
In Russia, there have also been reports that three GAC crossovers burned within a two-month span. The first incident occurred on the M12 highway in May 2024, when smoke billowed from under the hood and a vehicle door ignited. The driver struggled to stop the car as a seat belt jam and a rapid sequence of events led to burns and injuries. The wife, in the meantime, managed to exit the vehicle. These incidents have raised concerns among potential buyers and fleet operators about mechanical reliability and emergency response in real-world driving conditions.
Some readers have connected these reports to broader automotive safety debates, including comparisons to other models in the market. Discussions about safety features, service networks, and warranty coverage have intensified as consumers seek reassurance through official channels and independent evaluations.
Across markets, the topic underscores the ongoing tension between connected car technologies and the need to protect personal data. The ability of manufacturers to perform remote diagnostics, software updates, and condition monitoring is increasingly common, but it also raises questions about consent, data storage, and governance. Users in the United States and Canada may want to understand what data is collected, who can access it, and how it is used, particularly for leased or shared vehicles. Transparency from manufacturers and clear choices for owners will be essential in building trust and ensuring lawful data practices.