New European Union (EU) cybersecurity rules are forcing manufacturers to phase out certain car models. Volkswagen will stop production of the Up and the Transporter T6.1 due to high conversion costs. Currently, Porsche only manufactures the Macan, Boxster and Cayman combustion models for export. Audi, Renault and Smart are discontinuing older models early to avoid costly retrofits.

Volkswagen withdraws

From July 2024, according to the Berliner Morgenpost, regulations will require a certified management system against cyber attacks. Retrofitting older models is too expensive, says VW brand boss Thomas Schäfer. The costs could amount to several million euros per model. Therefore, car manufacturers are concentrating on newer and compliant models.

Numerous thefts and attempts to manipulate vehicle data show the need to improve security measures. Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced safety features. This also applies to newer models from Volkswagen, Porsche and other affected manufacturers.

“To protect against a smartphone connected to the infotainment system being compromised, vehicle electrical systems, for example, are divided into domains, so that access to safety-critical systems, such as brakes, is not easy,” The Morgenpost quotes Christoph Krauß, professor of networks. security at the Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences.

Manufacturers must take this into account.

The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) standards R155 and R156 establish guidelines for cybersecurity. Starting in July 2024, all new vehicles must comply with these regulations, including suppliers. A uniform level of cybersecurity for all new vehicles reduces the risk of unauthorized access.

Manufacturers like Volkswagen have to establish a cybersecurity management system (CSMS). Its objective is to prevent or quickly resolve computer attacks. This increases security against unauthorized access. The automotive industry is shifting towards greater cybersecurity.

Sources: Berliner Morgenpost

By Philipp Rall