Panasonic Automotive and VicOne advance security for next-gen vehicle cockpits

Panasonic Automotive Systems and VicOne Corporation have expanded the capabilities of their security innovation to support container environments in next-generation cockpit systems and have completed the technical validation.

This security innovation integrates VicOne’s xCarbon vehicle security software into Panasonic Automotive Systems’ VERZEUSE^® for Virtualization Extensions Type-3 attack detection and protection innovation, which was announced in October 2024, to expand its capabilities.

This makes it possible to efficiently monitor communication between containers on the Automotive Grade Linux (hereinafter referred to as AGL) reference board, demonstrating its applicability to next-generation vehicle cockpit systems.

Panasonic Automotive Systems’ VERZEUSE^® for Virtualization Extensions Type-3 monitors communications between (1) software areas such as an infotainment system container in a vehicle control virtual machine that are vulnerable to attacks because they are connected to external networks, and (2) software areas such as an instrument cluster container in a vehicle control virtual machine that implement the vehicle’s essential functions, such as control functions and software update functions. The monitoring function is installed in an isolated container, allowing it to monitor communications from a secure area, and detect and block suspicious communications. This protects the vehicle’s essential functions from cyber attacks and enhances vehicle safety and security. This method also meets the security requirements of next-generation cockpit systems that utilize a virtualization environment.

VicOne’s xCarbon is security software for vehicles that detects and protects against cyber attacks. By linking xCarbon with the extension interface of VERZEUSE^® for Virtualization Extensions Type-3, it is possible to monitor the communication between containers to protect next-generation cockpit systems from attacks that exploit vulnerabilities and from communication errors, etc. Furthermore, VERZEUSE^® for Virtualization Extensions Type-3 can identify high-risk communications and send them to xCarbon, enabling more efficient security monitoring.

In recent years, advancements in SDV and the growing number of connected vehicles have increased the risk of security threats, such as cyber attacks targeting vehicles. In January 2021, the United Nations enacted the UN-R155 regulation for automotive cyber security. In Japan, the regulation was implemented for some vehicles starting in July 2022, and will apply to all vehicles starting from May 2026. Under this regulation, vehicles lacking sufficient cybersecurity measures will not meet safety standards and will be prohibited from sale. As a result, security has become an increasing priority for automobile manufacturers and related companies.

Panasonic Automotive Systems and VicOne will continue to enhance cyber security for next-generation vehicle cockpit systems.