Porsche is testing blockchain applications directly in vehicles in collaboration with Berlin start up XAIN.
The automaker claimed to be the first to implement and successfully test blockchain in a car.
Go deeper with GlobalData
It said transactions based on this technology are both secure and can be processed far more quickly than before. Applications tested include locking and unlocking the vehicle via an app, temporary access authorisations and new business models based on encrypted data logging.
“This could be developed further, for example, to improve autonomous driving functions,” Porsche said.
Blockchain is a decentralised protocol for data transactions between business partners. It also forms the basis of cryptocurrencies Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Every change is recorded in chronologically arranged data blocks, making it transparent and tamper proof.
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalDataThis could hold enormous potential, according to Porsche financial strategist Oliver Doring.
“We can use blockchain to transfer data more quickly and securely, giving our customers more peace of mind in the future, whether they are charging, parking or need to give a third party, such as a parcel delivery agent, temporary access to the vehicle. We translate the innovative technology into direct benefits for the customer.”
The services developed on blockchain are fast and very secure. The car becomes part of the blockchain, making a direct offline connection possible without diversion through a server. Taking 1.6 seconds, the process of opening and closing the car via an app is up to six times faster than before. In addition, efficient cryptographic encryption takes place. This process ensures that all activities are documented in the blockchain in a way that prevents them from being modified, and can be viewed using an app. Access authorisations can be distributed digitally and securely and can be monitored by the vehicle owner at any time. Access also works remotely.
New business models based on blockchain
The technology also makes it possible to assign temporary access authorisations for the vehicle – in a secure and efficient manner. A protected connection to vehicle data and functionalities can be established using blockchain. At the same time, it protects all communication between participants. Third party providers can be integrated without the need for additional hardware, simply by using smart contracts – automated contracts that trigger transactions upon the occurrence of previously defined conditions. This means that compliance with the contract is ensured through technology.
“With this modern technology, we are also fostering our electromobility offensive: ranging from a faster, easier and safer authentication at the charging station to the payment process,” said the automaker’s head of electric/electronic systems Uwe Michael.
Porsche is also working on new business models based on blockchain.
Through auditable data logging, the data to be processed is encrypted locally in a distributed blockchain. The user is in control of the data, deciding how to use it depending on the situation. All activities are documented in the blockchain, making deletions transparent. With this basis, the future of autonomous driving will see improved functions on offer.
Local data can be used to obtain regional learning effects, which can be shared securely with other vehicles. The customer can make use of swarm data, which is protected at the same time.
XAIN won the first Porsche Innovation Contest on the subject of blockchain last summer, beating over 100 other applicants in the process. Following the contest, interdisciplinary teams from Porsche worked with XAIN over the course of three months to develop and test applications.
Blockchain was introduced into the Panamera using an energy efficient mining process from XAIN.
Porsche is also working on further applications for the technology, including in the areas of charging and parking.
XAIN offers various blockchain and artificial intelligence solutions, with a particular focus on intelligent industrial applications. Founders Leif Nissen Lundbæk and Felix Hahmann are particularly active in the automotive industry, where the two started their careers.
Together with researchers from the University of Oxford and Imperial College London, XAIN has developed a blockchain system in recent years, which significantly reduces the energy consumption of mining.
The product is also suitable for mobile devices and vehicles.
