Tata Elxsi and IISc Collaborate on Automotive Cybersecurity

Tata Elxsi, a leading design and technology service provider, has joined forces with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) to embark on a groundbreaking journey in the realm of Automotive Cybersecurity Solutions, as part of their existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

This innovative partnership leverages Tata Elxsi’s extensive expertise in artificial intelligence and machine learning, coupled with their venture into software-defined vehicles (SDV) and electric vehicle solutions. It harmonizes these strengths with the advanced research capabilities of IISc.

The primary objective of this collaboration is to tackle the increasingly complex cybersecurity challenges posed by modern in-vehicle networks, equipped with an array of sensors and sophisticated software that define today’s driving experience. The evolution of vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-anything (V2X) connectivity has ushered in new opportunities for potential threats such as theft, remote control, tampering, and unauthorized access to personal data. Simultaneously, IISc researchers are dedicating their efforts to developing automotive vehicle technologies and fortifying network security, smart grids, and other critical systems.

The focal point of this partnership lies in enhancing security and threat detection in connected automotive vehicles through AI & ML-based intrusion detection systems. Furthermore, the collaboration aims to proactively identify and mitigate potential security threats and anomalies while providing foresight into emerging and more advanced threats in the automotive ecosystem.

Manoj Raghavan, CEO and MD of Tata Elxsi, emphasized the critical role of cybersecurity in the future of the automotive industry. He stated, “Tata Elxsi recognizes that the automotive industry’s future depends on secure vehicles and trust. In the connected vehicles space, we have made substantial investments to enhance our solution stacks for Autonomous vehicles via our ADAS program, SDV architecture, and related initiatives. As vehicles increasingly rely on digital technologies, ensuring cybersecurity is paramount. With IISc’s partnership focusing on Cybersecurity solutions and products, we are confident that our clients and automakers can build safer, more resilient vehicles while providing peace of mind to end customers.”

Prof G Rangarajan, Director of IISc, emphasized the growing cybersecurity threats in today’s interconnected world. He said, “In today’s digital and interconnected world, cybersecurity threats are growing with technological advances. At IISc, we are always keen on academia-industry partnerships that can help address such challenges. We are excited to join hands with Tata Elxsi to foster innovations in this important domain of security of connected automotive vehicles.”

Prof Rajesh Sundaresan, Dean of the Division of Electrical, Electronics, and Computer Sciences (EECS) at IISc, added, “A modern car easily has upwards of 3,000 chips sensing and controlling the car’s operation. The design complexity associated with enabling safe in-vehicle networking is enormous. This partnership brings together IISc’s strengths in cyber-physical systems security and Tata Elxsi’s strengths in design and technology to enable safe, secure, and connected mobility.”