Part of the legislation stipulates that no more than 15% of a car company can be owned by a Chinese entity. Unfortunately for Mercedes, it is about 20% owned by various Chinese entities, which could bar it from operating in the United States. "We are not naive about the geopolitical environment and the competition between the United States and China." He added that Mercedes was monitoring the U.S. debate closely, and it has been "deeply involved" in talks with all of the parties involved. Chinese automaker BAIC and Geely's founder Li Shufu hold a combined 20-ish percent of the company.