Irdeto has announced that XPENG has implemented Cloakware for Connected Transport to protect its next-generation fleet of connected cars and autonomous vehicles. Irdeto protects all applications operating on the in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) unit of XPENG automobiles and also ensures that XPENG’s mobile companion application for the vehicle cannot be tampered with or altered by hackers.

Cloakware for Connected Transport protects applications running on the vehicle IVI and across all mobile operating systems, including Linux, Android, iOS, QNX, etc. by hardening the applications against tampering and data loss as well as securing all communications between the applications in the vehicles and the application running on the end user’s mobile device. Irdeto’s Cloakware technology has been implemented into XPENG’s Compact SUVs fleet of connected cars that went into production in December 2017 and hit the road in January 2018. In addition, XPENG is expanding upon its security partnership with Irdeto to protect its future fleet of autonomous vehicles by integrating Cloakware into its next-generation vehicles. By implementing security at the beginning of the production process, XPENG is taking a proactive approach to security, ensuring that its vehicles operate as intended.

“The safety of our drivers is the number one priority for XPENG,” said Neo Tan, Chief Security Architect, XPENG. “As we integrate additional connectivity into our next-generation fleet of vehicles, we recognize that security is critical to maintain consumer safety. Our long-term security partnership with Irdeto provides us with peace of mind that our drivers are protected and that they are able to use all applications as intended to enhance their driving experience.”

A recent survey by Irdeto found that 85% of consumers believe that any connected car has the potential to be targeted by a cyberattack. The survey also found that of the consumers who plan on purchasing a vehicle in the future, 53% are likely to research the car’s ability to protect itself from a cyberattack. This clearly indicates that consumers are both aware of the damage a cyberattack could cause and that cybersecurity is a key factor for many consumers when they are purchasing their next vehicle.

“Consumers are beginning to recognise the importance of cybersecurity as an essential component in their next-generation vehicle,” said Daniel Thunberg, Global Head, Connected Transport, Irdeto. “As hackers continuously evolve cyberattack strategies, it becomes even more important for OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers to implement a multi-layered, defence in depth strategy from the beginning. Tech-savvy automakers like XPENG who take a proactive approach to cybersecurity for connected and autonomous vehicles will garner attention from consumers who perceive their brand as one that takes their security and safety seriously.”

Cloakware for Connected Transport provides OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers with innovative, patented technologies and anti-cybercrime services to address a variety of security challenges in a car. Irdeto solutions include strong anti-hacking protection with renewable security that protects against reverse engineering of vehicle software. Cloakware provides a secure, tamper-proof environment supported across multiple OS’s, ensuring that vehicles operate as intended.

Categories: Press Releases