Thales Drives Cyber-Security Forward For Connected And Autonomous Cars
Connected cars are a reality, most modern vehicles on the road nowadays have some form of connectivity to the open world. This raises important challenges on multiple software integration and cybersecurity. To address this challenge, Thales, through its German company Sysgo, and Vector, the Stuttgart-based specialist for automotive embedded electronics has founded a joint-venture to address the critical issue of multiple software managing multiple often safety-critical functions.
The volume and complexity of software used to manage virtually every aspect of a connected or autonomous vehicle, both mechanic and electronic, could bear a potential risk to people’s safety. Each software presents a potential attack surface for security breaches, which could affect the overall reliability of the vehicle. The aim of this partnership is to co-develop an integrated software platform for improved performance and cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity and Safety Critical Systems are part of the Thales DNA. For us, this joint initiative with Vector and Sysgo is a natural step beyond what we already do for the automotive industry in cybersecurity services and consulting
– Laurent Maury VP, Thales.
Through this joint-venture, Thales and Vector will combine their respective embedded systems expertise in aviation safety and in automotive software according to ISO 26262 to offer a single platform to run the car’s software and applications. By simplifying the vehicle’s control systems they aim to strengthen its cyber-protection whilst ensuring the isolation of individual applications.