Page 176 - Cyber Defense eMagazine RSAC Special Edition 2025

Market Outlook: Accelerating Demand for Automotive Cybersecurity

The global automotive cybersecurity market was valued at US$ 4.6 billion in 2023 and is projected to
reach US$ 25.5 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 17.2%. This surge is driven by increased
connectivity, regulatory pressures, and rising public awareness of digital safety.

Cybersecurity as the Cornerstone of Autonomous and Connected Vehicles

As vehicles become smarter, more connected, and increasingly autonomous, cybersecurity is no longer
a luxury — it’s a critical necessity. Modern cars are now rolling computers, relying on complex networks
of sensors, processors, and communication modules to perform everything from navigation to adaptive
cruise control. This increasing dependence on software opens up potential vulnerabilities that malicious
actors can exploit. From hijacking GPS signals to disabling brakes remotely, cyber threats in the
automotive world pose risks not only to data but to lives.

With the arrival of vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication — where cars interact with infrastructure,
pedestrians, and each other — the need for secure communication channels has never been more
pressing. Hackers gaining access to these systems could create large-scale traffic disruptions or worse,
endanger public safety. That’s why leading automotive manufacturers and cybersecurity firms are
working hand-in-hand to create advanced encryption protocols, intrusion detection systems, and over-
the-air (OTA) updates that keep vehicles secure and adaptive.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is also playing a pivotal role. Predictive threat intelligence systems powered by
AI can identify unusual patterns in vehicle behavior and take preemptive action to stop attacks before
they occur. In the near future, cars will need to be equipped not only with smart features but also with
smart defenses — ones that evolve with the threats they face.

Impact Across Key Sectors

• Autonomous and Electric Vehicles

Self-driving cars and EVs rely heavily on software and connectivity. In 2025, cybersecurity will be
essential for ensuring public trust in these technologies. Enhanced protection mechanisms will guard
against system manipulation, unauthorized data access, and energy management sabotage.

• Fleet Management and Logistics

Commercial vehicle fleets — especially those relying on real-time route optimization — will benefit from
encrypted communication channels and endpoint protection to prevent hacking attempts that could
disrupt supply chains or compromise sensitive data.

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