Cars are increasingly becoming more like mobile datacenters. From advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) to connected car services – data driven, personalized and seamless experiences inside the car are now as important to consumers as traditional attributes, such as handling, horsepower or styling. But along with these new software-defined vehicles comes a growing risk of cyber security threats.

Several reports have noted a significant rise in malicious programs targeting cars, and consumers are taking note: in a 2019 IBM consumer survey, we found that 62 percent of consumers would consider one brand over another if it had better security and privacy measures. This has prompted new industry standards that automakers need to implement as part of the development process to help curb risks and keep drivers safe.

Regulatory compliance paves the way for cyber security

Last year, the United National Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) mandated new regulations on the cybersecurity management systems for new vehicles. These regulations require manufacturers to have evidence of a certified Cyber Security Management System, as well as a Software Update Management System for all new vehicles in 2022. And, by 2024, all prior makes and models will need to be updated to comply.

In response, this year, the International Organization for Standardization and SAE International introduced ISO/SAE 21434, a new standard with process requirements for cybersecurity risk management of road vehicle systems. Covered processes include the complete life cycle from concept, development, production, operations and maintenance, to decommissioning.

While important, these standards become one more compliance requirement for automakers to verify, drawing automotive engineering resources away from innovation.

Today during IAA Mobility 2021, IBM is announcing that IBM Engineering Lifecycle Management (ELM) solution for Automotive Compliance now supports UNECE WP.29/R155 and ISO/SAE 21434 standards within our solution.

IBM ELM Automotive Compliance solution is designed to help simplify the compliance process as automakers transition from mechanical engineering into software companies. Comprising of templates and toolkits, the IBM ELM Automotive Compliance solution helps automate and streamline the compliance process. This means more time invested in developing innovative solutions that define your brand, and less time spent on compliance confirmations.

In fact, by employing this solution, multiple clients have reported they were able to divert a significant number of members from their engineering compliance team back to product development.

As the market shifts, this is just one more way IBM is helping automakers evolve, in turn advancing the future of mobility to be connected and secure.

If you’re attending IAA Mobility 2021, stop by the IBM Booth (A75) in Hall 2. If not attending, we encourage you to check out our virtual summit to learn more.

You can learn more about this solution here