Safety and security in autonomous driving

The integration of autonomous technology in vehicles has brought about a new set of concerns, particularly when it comes to safety and security. As the industry moves towards higher levels of automation, it becomes increasingly important to ensure that cybersecurity measures are in place to protect both the vehicles and their passengers.


One key standard that is being used in the automotive industry is ISO/SAE 21434, which provides a structured process for incorporating cybersecurity considerations into automotive products. This standard requires manufacturers and suppliers to demonstrate due diligence in implementing cybersecurity engineering and ensures that cybersecurity management is applied throughout the supply chain.


The development of automated driving features also brings new challenges to safety. Historically, automotive electrical and electronic systems have been regulated according to the functional safety standard ISO 26262, which assures a high level of resilience in the event of system or component failure. However, automated driving technology brings the potential for the system to make errors, such as incorrectly interpreting a situation on the road. In order to address these challenges, a new approach to safety, known as safety of the intended function (SOTIF) has been introduced through the standard ISO/PAS 21448:2019.


In addition to safety concerns, the integration of software-defined cars and connectivity to the cloud also increases the risk of cyberattacks. Hackers may target vehicles to steal user data or to take control of the vehicle, putting both the automaker and passengers at risk. The well-known incident of a Jeep Cherokee being hacked while on a highway serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers.


It is clear that as the industry moves towards higher levels of automation, the interdependence of safety and security becomes more important. Adequate cybersecurity measures must be in place to protect against cyberattacks and ensure the safety of passengers in autonomous vehicles. Automotive manufacturers and suppliers must demonstrate due diligence in implementing cybersecurity engineering and ensure that cybersecurity management is applied throughout the supply chain. Furthermore, new standards such as SOTIF must be adopted to address the unique challenges posed by automated driving technology.

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