As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain traction in the automotive industry, so too do concerns about their vulnerability to cyber threats. A recent study led by Siddhesh Pimpale, a researcher in the field of cybersecurity and power electronics, sheds light on the potential cyber-attack vectors targeting EV traction power electronics. Pimpale’s work, published in the IEEE Transactions on Transportation Electrification, underscores the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures in the EV sector.
Pimpale’s research focuses on the digital transformation of the automotive industry, particularly the role of power electronics in EV traction management, energy conversion, and vehicle control. The study employs the STRIDE threat modeling framework to identify and categorize vulnerabilities in EV powertrain architecture, including inverters, motor controllers, and communication systems. The research highlights several potential cyber-attack vectors, such as Denial of Service (DoS) attacks, spoofing, firmware manipulation, and data injection.
Through attack simulations, Pimpale demonstrates that even minor disruptions in control signals or sensed data can have severe implications. These include unstable torque sensor values, abnormal voltage shifts, and complete system freezes. The findings emphasize the urgent need for embedded intrusion preventive mechanisms and secure firmware design in EV powertrain electronics.
For the energy sector, particularly companies involved in EV manufacturing and infrastructure, this research underscores the importance of integrating cybersecurity best practices into the design and development of EV power electronics. As EVs become more prevalent, ensuring the resilience of their power systems against cyber threats will be crucial for maintaining safety, reliability, and efficiency in the energy ecosystem.
Pimpale’s work serves as a valuable contribution to the broader understanding of cybersecurity challenges in the context of automotive power electronics, providing a foundation for future research and practical applications aimed at safeguarding EV systems against cyber threats.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.