King Saud University in Riyadh has achieved a significant milestone by securing a US patent for its innovative Motor Vehicle Cyber Inspection System. The system is designed to protect the computer systems of electric cars during interactions with charging stations. Developed by a team led by Prof. Muhammad Khurram Khan and Dr. Wazir Khan, the software conducts thorough cybersecurity inspections and promptly notifies drivers of the status through smart displays or mobile devices.
The patented system performs scans for various threats, including malware, ransomware, backdoors, data leakage, and software vulnerabilities. This breakthrough not only highlights King Saud University’s commitment to pioneering research and technological advancements but also solidifies its position at the forefront of innovation in automotive cybersecurity.
The US Patent and Trademark Office granted approval for the patent on January 16, following the submission of the application in March 2023. Prof. Muhammad Khurram Khan, who led the team, emphasized the significance of this achievement for the burgeoning automotive sector in Saudi Arabia, particularly under the Vision 2030 initiative.
This development is expected to provide a boost to the local electric car industry, with a positive impact on entities like Ceer Motors and the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Company. Prof. Khan emphasized the alignment of the patent with the national goals of technological innovation and localization.
Under Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is actively diversifying its economy, with a specific emphasis on the automotive sector. Ceer Motors, the Kingdom’s inaugural electric vehicle brand, and the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Co. (EVIQ) exemplify this commitment. EVIQ aims to facilitate the transition to electric vehicles by establishing a nationwide network of 1,000 charging stations, consisting of 5,000 chargers, by 2030.
This patent represents more than a technological milestone; it aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader goals of economic diversification, job creation, and skill development. The integration of this advanced technology into vehicles and charging stations positions local manufacturers at the forefront of technological innovation, supporting the nation’s economic growth and indigenous capabilities.
