DfT issues guidance to prevent smart vehicle hacking

The Department for Transport has announced new guidance which aims to ensure that engineers developing smart vehicles will incorporate tougher cyber protections to help prevent hacking.

The government is also looking at a broader programme of work announced in this year’s Queen’s speech under the Autonomous and Electric Vehicles Bill that aims to create a new framework for self-driving vehicle insurance.

Read: The key principles of vehicle cyber security for connected and automated vehicles

Mike Hawes, Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders Chief Executive, said: "We’re pleased that government is taking action now to ensure a seamless transition to fully connected and autonomous cars in the future and, given this shift will take place globally, that it is championing cyber security and shared best practice at an international level.

"These vehicles will transform our roads and society, dramatically reducing accidents and saving thousands of lives. A consistent set of guidelines is an important step towards ensuring the UK can be among the first – and safest – of international markets to grasp the benefits of this exciting new technology."