RIYADH: King Saud University (KSU) in Riyadh has secured a patent in the United States for innovative software designed to safeguard the computer systems of electric vehicles during interactions with charging stations.
Named the Motor Vehicle Cyber Inspection System, the invention, led by Prof. Muhammad Khurram Khan and Dr. Wazir Khan, notifies drivers of cybersecurity status through a smart display or mobile device post-inspection. The system can scan for malware, ransomware, backdoors, data leakage, and software vulnerabilities.
The US Patent and Trademark Office granted approval on January 16, following the submission of the application in March 2023. KSU’s media center highlighted the success of the team, emphasizing the university’s commitment to pioneering research and technological advancements in automotive cybersecurity.
Prof. Khan underscored the significance of the patent for Saudi Arabia’s automotive sector under Vision 2030, particularly for entities like Ceer Motors and the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Company. He emphasized the alignment of the patent with Vision 2030 goals, contributing to job creation, skill development, technological innovation, and economic diversification efforts.
The patented technology, if integrated into vehicles and charging stations, could provide a competitive edge, enhancing the cybersecurity resilience of automotive products and positioning local manufacturers at the forefront of technological innovation.
Prof. Khan further noted that local implementation aligns with national goals of technological innovation and localization, fostering economic growth and creating high-value jobs in the technology and automotive sectors.
As part of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is actively diversifying its economy, with a specific focus on the automotive sector. Initiatives such as Ceer Motors, the Kingdom’s first EV brand, and the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Co. (EVIQ), which aims to establish a nationwide network of 1,000 charging stations with 5,000 chargers by 2030.
