Representative image (AP) NEW DELHI: A new era of cyber threats is coming to the roads. As vehicles become smarter, with more software driving systems, the risk of malware attacks is no longer science fiction. In response, the road transport ministry has proposed sweeping rules to make cybersecurity and software update management mandatory for vehicles equipped with advanced systems.For the first time, the ministry has put out draft rules to make cybersecurity and software update management mandatory for certain categories of vehicles in India. The proposed cybersecurity rules will apply to passenger and commercial vehicles and tractors equipped with at least one electronic control unit (ECU) with Level-3 or higher automated driving capability.It says compliance with cybersecurity and cybersecurity management systems would be mandatory for new models of vehicles with Level-3 automation and above, such as Mercedes-Benz S Class, Audi A8, and BMW 7 Series, from Oct. This would be applicable for existing models from next April. Vehicles capable of receiving over-the-air (OTA) software updates will be next, between April and Oct 2028, followed by all other vehicles with software update capability from Oct 2029.’OTA’ in cars refers to the wireless delivery of software, firmware, or system updates directly to a vehicle via cellular networks or Wi-Fi. This is similar to smartphone updates, as it eliminates the need to visit a dealership for repairs, enhancements, or new features. Govt is also working on strategies to deal with the risk of any IT system remotely controlling battery and electric vehicles. Officials said there is a need to go for secure coding for a battery management system designed to monitor and manage the health and state of a battery pack. This has to be done by the vehicle manufacturers.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosMamata Calls TMC Rebels ‘Traitors’, Dares Rivals To ‘Kill Me’ As Party Split DeepensKedarnath-Badrinath Donation Row: Cong Questions BJP, Temple Committee Launches ProbeJ&K School Book Controversy: BJP, Civil Society Demand Probe Over Book Glorifying SeparatistsHAPS Explained: How India’s New High-Altitude Surveillance Aircraft Will Boost Defence CapabilitiesDelhi Court Reserves Order On Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam’s Fresh Bail Pleas In Riots CaseSTORY GOVT DEBUNKS E20 FUEL MYTHS 10-POINT CLARIFICATIONFresh Blow To Mamata Camp As Bengal Chief Quits During Intensifying TMC Power StrugglePM Modi Dedicates India’s 1st Greenfield Integrated Refinery-Cum-Petrochemical Complex at PachpadraRam Temple Tightens Donation Security As SIT Deepens Probe Into Alleged EmbezzlementPM Narendra Modi Opens Jodhpur’s New Airport Terminal, Launches Revamped UDAN Scheme123PhotostoriesLiver cancer doesn’t always announce itself: The early symptoms many people missA chair may be one of the most dangerous places for your heart: Cardiologist explains the risks of sitting too longKyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi: Smriti Irani and the OG cast reunite as show turns 26 for an intimate get-together; Gauri says ‘Some stories never end’Harvard gastroenterologist reveals 7 silent symptoms of pancreatic cancer everyone should knowWorld Biryani Day 2026: 12 iconic Biryanis from across India to celebrate with7 Birds that can remember human faces for years and surprise scientists with their intelligenceFrom Inland Taipan to killer bees: 5 small-sized beasts that can take a human life in minutesHow to know if you are being manipulated in a relationship: Psychologist shares 3 evident signs people often ignoreFrom America to India: The world’s most beautiful birds lost to extinction and those on the brink of disappearing foreverShopping for a Banarasi saree? 5 terms that will save you thousands123Hot PicksTrump tariffsLuka Modric Net WorthEPF Scheme 2026Amarnath Yatra 2026Income Tax Return FilingMumbai rainUS unemploymentMicrosoft layoffsIndia Japal TradeTop TrendingMumbai rainDelhi rainWeather tomorrowFIFA World Cup 2026GTA 6 Estimated SizeNew England PatriotsCandace OwensFIFA War DecisionCA Toppers ListAnitha Radhakrishnan
NEW DELHI: A new era of cyber threats is coming to the roads. As vehicles become smarter, with more software driving systems, the risk of malware attacks is no longer science fiction. In response, the road transport ministry has proposed sweeping rules to make cybersecurity and software update management mandatory for vehicles equipped with advanced systems.For the first time, the ministry has put out draft rules to make cybersecurity and software update management mandatory for certain categories of vehicles in India. The proposed cybersecurity rules will apply to passenger and commercial vehicles and tractors equipped with at least one electronic control unit (ECU) with Level-3 or higher automated driving capability.It says compliance with cybersecurity and cybersecurity management systems would be mandatory for new models of vehicles with Level-3 automation and above, such as Mercedes-Benz S Class, Audi A8, and BMW 7 Series, from Oct. This would be applicable for existing models from next April. Vehicles capable of receiving over-the-air (OTA) software updates will be next, between April and Oct 2028, followed by all other vehicles with software update capability from Oct 2029.‘OTA’ in cars refers to the wireless delivery of software, firmware, or system updates directly to a vehicle via cellular networks or Wi-Fi. This is similar to smartphone updates, as it eliminates the need to visit a dealership for repairs, enhancements, or new features. Govt is also working on strategies to deal with the risk of any IT system remotely controlling battery and electric vehicles. Officials said there is a need to go for secure coding for a battery management system designed to monitor and manage the health and state of a battery pack. This has to be done by the vehicle manufacturers.
