Porsche testing blockchain applications in its cars

Porsche announced that it is testing blockchain applications in its vehicles.

The German automaker said in a statement that in collaboration with Berlin-based start-up XAIN it has become the “first automobile manufacturer to implement and successfully test blockchain in a car.”

Transactions based on blockchain technology are both secure and processed far more quickly “than anything that has come before,” Porsche said.

The applications tested include locking and unlocking cars via an app, temporary access authorizations and business models based on encrypted data logging.

“The car becomes part of the blockchain, making a direct offline connection possible – that is, without diversion through a server,” Porsche said.

“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. For example, access authorisations can be distributed digitally and securely and can be monitored by the vehicle owner at any time. Access also works remotely.”

The technology could be developed further to help improve autonomous driving functions.

Oliver Döring, Financial Strategist at Porsche said: “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.”