A recent example is the KIA hacking incident, where vulnerabilities exposed millions of vehicles to remote control by attackers, sparking concerns about the safety of not only EVs but modern cars across the board—whether they run on electric, hybrid, or internal combustion engines (ICE).
As cars evolve into highly sophisticated machines with complex software systems, they’re becoming more like computers on wheels. This digital transformation introduces critical challenges related to cybersecurity, system reliability, and long-term durability. In this blog, we dive into these risks, using the KIA incident to illustrate how vulnerable today’s vehicles are, and explore how the increasing complexity of modern cars is affecting their durability and reliability
Cybersecurity Risks: The KIA Hacking Incident
In early 2023, a group of security researchers including Sam Curry, uncovered significant vulnerabilities in KIA’s electric vehicles. These weaknesses could allow attackers to remotely control millions of KIA cars, putting vehicle owners at risk. The flaw, tied to the keyless entry and start systems, enabled hackers to access critical vehicle functions by exploiting an insecure software communication channel between the key fob and the car. Shockingly, Curry and his team demonstrated that using just the vehicle's license plate could bypass security controls and remotely unlock, start, or even track the car.
One of the most alarming aspects of this vulnerability was its simplicity. In about 30 seconds, the researchers exploited these security holes to gain full control of the vehicle without needing a physical key. Once access was obtained, the attackers could manipulate various functions of the car undetected.
The Real Danger: Personal Data and Full Control
The risks extended far beyond the vehicle itself. The bugs within KIA’s owner portal and dealer infrastructure allowed attackers to control the car and steal personal information, such as the owner’s name, address, email, and phone number. The researchers found that attackers could create a second user on the car’s system without the owner’s knowledge, gaining continuous access to the vehicle. From there, they could send commands like unlocking, starting, or tracking the vehicle using a dashboard built into their proof-of-concept.
This vulnerability meant that any Kia vehicle made after 2013 could be hacked and controlled remotely. What’s more concerning is that no notification was sent to the victim that their car had been accessed or that permissions had been changed. In this sense, the hacking incident serves as a critical wake-up call for the automotive industry and highlights the risks of overreliance on interconnected software.
eOverreliance on Software: A Broader Issue for All Modern Cars
While the KIA hacking incident brought EV vulnerabilities into the spotlight, this is far from an isolated case. All modern cars, including ICE and hybrid vehicles, increasingly rely on software systems. From automated driving features and infotainment systems to advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), today’s vehicles are more complex than ever, raising many new challenges.
1. Software Glitches and OTA Updates
Modern cars, regardless of their powertrain, are often plagued by software bugs and glitches. Over-the-air (OTA) updates, while convenient, are not foolproof. For instance, Tesla has had to issue numerous software updates to address glitches in its Autopilot system. Although OTA updates can potentially fix issues remotely, they can also introduce new problems or leave vehicles temporarily vulnerable to cyberattacks.
2. System Failures from Overcomplication
As vehicles become more electronically sophisticated, the potential for system failures increases. One malfunctioning component in a car’s software can cause a cascading effect, resulting in vehicle failure. For example, in 2021, Volkswagen recalled thousands of cars due to a software malfunction that caused power loss. This demonstrates how the growing complexity of vehicle software can compromise the reliability of the entire car.
3. Supply Chain and Chip Shortages
The global semiconductor shortage has exacerbated the vulnerabilities of modern vehicles. The shortage has delayed production and deliveries since nearly every function in today’s cars depends on chips—ranging from powertrains to infotainment systems. The shortage for EVs, hybrids, and ICE vehicles highlights how reliant these vehicles are on technology and exposes another layer of fragility in the supply chain.
Manufacturing Complexity and the Reliability Trade-off
The move toward increasingly sophisticated technology not only raises cybersecurity concerns but also poses a challenge for manufacturers to maintain the durability of their vehicles. While new features add convenience and functionality, they often make cars more fragile and prone to failure.
1. Battery Degradation in EVs
For EVs, battery degradation remains a significant concern. Over time, EV batteries lose capacity, reducing the vehicle's range and performance. While manufacturers offer battery warranties, the reality is that degradation can happen more quickly than expected, particularly in extreme temperatures or with frequent fast charging. The cost of replacing an EV battery can be prohibitive, often rivaling the price of a used vehicle, raising questions about the long-term viability of EV ownership.
2. Over-Engineering and Cost Cutting
Automakers face intense pressure to innovate rapidly while keeping costs down to remain competitive. This has led to what some experts call "over-engineering"—the introduction of complex systems that, while technologically impressive, may not be as robust or reliable as simpler mechanical components from previous generations of vehicles. This trend can lead to a higher failure rate, as seen with advanced braking systems or electronic control units that often malfunction due to the intricate electronics they rely on.
At the same time, automakers may use cheaper materials or components to cut costs, which can compromise the vehicle's durability. This balancing act between innovation and cost-cutting often leaves consumers with cars that, while offering more features, are more prone to breakdowns and costly repairs.
3. Planned Obsolescence?
Another growing concern is the idea of planned obsolescence—the belief that modern vehicles, particularly EVs, are intentionally designed to have shorter lifespans, much like consumer electronics. As cars become more like computers, their life cycles may mirror those of smartphones or laptops, where frequent updates render older models obsolete. This trend could mean that consumers are forced to replace or upgrade their vehicles sooner than they would have with older, less technologically dependent models.
Additionally, the complexity of modern vehicles has made repairs more difficult and expensive. Where traditional cars could be repaired by a skilled mechanic using essential tools, today's cars often require specialized technicians with software diagnostics, programming, and advanced electrical systems. This shift increases the cost of ownership and makes it harder for consumers to maintain their vehicles over the long term.
Are All Cars Becoming Less Reliable?
Although the focus is often on the challenges specific to EVs—such as battery degradation and charging infrastructure—the reliability issues seen in modern cars extend across the board. Once renowned for mechanical reliability, internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles are now plagued by the same software-driven problems as EVs. Complex automatic transmissions, advanced braking systems, and computer-controlled engines are increasingly susceptible to failure, making these vehicles as vulnerable as their electric counterparts.
Similarly, hybrid vehicles combine ICE and electric systems and are even more complex. Integrating two powertrains increases the potential for problems, from battery issues to engine malfunctions, all of which require specialized knowledge to repair. Ironically, the innovations designed to make vehicles safer, more efficient, and more comfortable make them more fragile and costly to maintain.
Conclusion: Navigating the Future of Automobiles
The KIA hacking incident is a stark reminder of how the evolution of cars, driven by software and connectivity, has created new risks for consumers and manufacturers alike. Whether it's EVs with cybersecurity vulnerabilities, ICE vehicles with software glitches, or hybrids struggling with the complexities of dual systems, the automotive industry's push toward technological advancement has introduced a new layer of challenges. While offering undeniable benefits, these innovations come with trade-offs in terms of reliability, repair costs, and the long-term sustainability of vehicle ownership.
As vehicles become more like mobile computers, consumers must weigh these risks against the advantages of modern technology. While the promise of EVs and advanced vehicles remains strong by offering reduced emissions, greater efficiency, and enhanced features, these benefits must be carefully balanced with a focus on durability, security, and long-term usability
Written by Prameet Manraj
Prameet is a Team Liaison at Pvotal Technologies. Passionate about all things digital since childhood, he likes to review the good and bad side of new technology.
