Keeping advanced automotive systems secure

Advanced automotive technology has revolutionised the capabilities of our cars, transforming everything from automated safety systems to infotainment devices. But with all digital technology comes the threat of cyber-attack so these systems have to be impervious to risk.  

Having previously partnered with a major Swedish automotive brand to deliver SW engineers to their manufacturing process, Coalesce Management Consulting were also brought in to support with cybersecurity testing. Automotive cybersecurity testing is a relatively new field, so there aren’t many people with the suitable experience to work within a test environment and also with ECU diagnostics.  

Testing would have to be performed every time an update was released to customers, which could take 1-2 months every time to ensure it complied with cybersecurity requirements.  

We had a suitable consultant who could join the business and work on their onboard platform and connected systems that would allow trucks to connect to the cloud using their proprietary vehicle control architecture. This system plays a crucial role in co-ordinating and managing the communication and operation of various electronic control units (ECUs) within the vehicle.  

Our consultant manages the cybersecurity testing and ensures that these systems can be safely brought to customers without threat.