The topic of cyber security appears to have gained popularity with the increasing development of autonomous/connected vehicles and technologies. Experts have warned about the threat of cyber attacks on these systems, for both OEMs and car dealers.
As it happens, the Government of Canada wants to establish the country as a global leader in cyber security and automotive software for connected and autonomous vehicles — and plans to invest $40 million in BlackBerry QNX.
“The race for a top spot in the new economy has already begun, and if we want to see Canadians take the lead, we need to have their backs,” said Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. “That is why our government is investing $40 million in BlackBerry QNX to design and develop a new software platform for the cars of today and tomorrow.”
The investment is expected to create 800 “good, middle class jobs” for Canadians and help further the country’s position as a global hub for innovation. Trudeau also said it will help make cars “safer and more secure.”
Those 800 jobs will be created over the next decade, with the potential to add another 300 more. BlackBerry plans to invest $310.5 million in the project. And another $5 million is expected to go towards cybersecurity to collaborate with the Government, post-secondary institutions, and private sector firms.
“BlackBerry is trusted by automakers and Tier 1s around the world to protect hardware, software, applications, and end-to-end systems from cyberattacks,” said John Chen, Executive Chairman and CEO, BlackBerry.
The company will use the funding to develop new automated control systems, upgrade communications in vehicles, and expanding its advanced driver-assistance system to improve vehicle safety and security. BlackBerry QNX also plans to develop concept cars as “labs” for its technology and software development.
