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In a recent statement, Hesai Technology, a leading lidar solutions provider, expressed its profound disappointment over being designated as a “Chinese Military Company” by the U.S. Department of Defense. The company firmly asserts that this classification is “unjust, capricious, and meritless.”
Hesai, known for its civilian-use lidar products, emphasized its strict policy of not engaging in military sales. “Hesai lidars are for civilian use only. We do not sell our products to any military in any country,” the company stated, underlining its commitment to non-military applications. The firm also highlighted its status as a publicly traded, privately owned entity on Nasdaq (HSAI), with a robust, independent corporate governance structure.
Further addressing concerns, Hesai clarified that its products are classified as EAR99 by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security, a designation indicating the products’ inapplicability for military use. Despite the controversial listing, Hesai remains confident that its business operations will not be significantly impacted, given its non-involvement with the U.S. military or any defense-related activities.
The backdrop to Hesai’s listing includes a nearly year-long negative media campaign and concerted lobbying efforts by competitors. Accusations against Hesai have ranged from alleged ties to the Chinese military to posing a national security threat to the U.S.—claims the company vehemently denies. Hesai suggests that these attacks stem from its technological edge and market success, which have positioned it unfavorably in the eyes of competitors lagging in product development.
About Hesai Technology: Positioned as a global lidar technology frontrunner, Hesai Technology (Nasdaq: HSAI) boasts a wide array of products catering to advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), autonomous vehicles, and robotic applications. The company prides itself on a seamless integration of R&D, design, and manufacturing, ensuring high-quality, affordable lidar solutions. With a strong foundation in optics, mechanics, electronics, and software, Hesai has established a significant international presence, serving customers in over 40 countries from its offices in Shanghai, Palo Alto, and Stuttgart.
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