Hardware giant firm Intel has announced the launch of the Automotive Security Review Board (ASRB). The goal of the review board is to help mitigate cybersecurity risks related to automobiles.

With an announcement on its website, Intel has established the Automotive Security Review Board or ASRB, “to help mitigate cybersecurity risks associated with connected vehicles”, in a news release.

Intel made the announcement on Sunday and added that the ASRB will bring together the “top security talent” from around the world who specialize in physical system security.

The idea is that members of the board and its researchers will perform “security tests and audits intended to codify best practices” to help combat cyber security risks facing connected cars.

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Furthermore, Intel also aims to encourage innovation and ideas that will help automakers as a whole, thereby striving for the safety of drivers and passengers in connected vehicles.

“We can, and must, raise the bar against cyber attacks in automobiles,” contends Chris Young, senior vice president and general manager of Intel Security.

“With the help of the ASRB, Intel can establish security best practices and encourage that cybersecurity is an essential ingredient in the design of every connected car.

The Need for Better Cybersecurity in Connected Vehicles

Cars have transitioned from being entirely mechanically-operated to embracing technology and being wired electrically for years now. Internal & external sensors, cameras, infotainment dashboards and computerized control systems are being the norm with modern vehicles.

While technology’s reach into modern transportation is an inevitability, any connected vehicle is vulnerable to external cyber-attacks.

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Fiat Chrysler’s Jeep made headlines recently when significant vulnerabilities were discovered within the SUV. Hackers demonstrated multiple exploits from a remote location wherein they took complete control of the vehicle while it was being driven on the road.

As a consequence, Fiat Chrysler issued the formal recall of 1.4 million vehicles to patch the vulnerability.

Tesla’s Model S car was another vehicle that was hacked by security researchers, exposing multiple vulnerabilities.

Technology research firm Gartner predicts that the world will see up to 150 million connected passenger vehicles on the road by 2020, with 60% to 75% of those vehicles capable of “consuming, creating and sharing Web-based data.”

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These numbers show that the very relevant subject of cyber security in connected vehicles needs to be addressed, according to Intel.

“Few things are more personal than our safety while on the road, making the ASRB the right idea at the right time,” added Young.