The all-new 11th-generation Honda Accord has arrived in Australia, boasting a plethora of cutting-edge internet-connected features that have never been seen before in the local range. With the inclusion of Google built-in, an embedded Telstra SIM, and a comprehensive suite of connected services functions, the Accord aims to provide a seamless and convenient experience for its owners. However, the increased connectivity also raises concerns about the potential for hacking and digital intrusion.
One of the standout features of the new Accord is the ability to unlock, start, and drive the car without a physical key, thanks to the Honda Connect smartphone application. This feature, along with many others, offers a new level of convenience for Accord owners. However, similar systems in other vehicles have been shown to have vulnerabilities that tech-savvy hackers can exploit, sometimes leading to vehicle theft.
Despite these concerns, Honda Australia is confident that the new Accord is not at risk of being digitally compromised. Speaking at the launch event, Arjun Nidigallu, Honda Australia’s senior product planner, emphasized the brand’s commitment to privacy and security. “We take privacy and security very seriously, and it’s been part of our evaluation of this product for a number of years now,” Mr. Nidigallu stated.
Honda has leveraged the lessons learned from launching similar products in other markets, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, to ensure that the Accord is as well-protected as possible against potential hacking attempts. One example of the measures taken is the car’s monthly reminder to submit the odometer reading through the connect app, allowing Honda to verify that the owner is still in physical possession of the vehicle, thereby minimizing the risk of unauthorized access.
In addition to Honda’s own security measures, the Accord also benefits from Telstra’s extensive security network. Jon Young Flores, Telstra’s Executive of Agribusiness, Manufacturing, Logistics, and Retail, highlighted the company’s “Cleaner Pipes” initiative, which provides an additional layer of security across Telstra’s mobile network. This initiative involves constant scanning and monitoring for any threats or attacks that might attempt to bring down the network or gain unauthorized access.
“[The] Cleaner Pipes initiatives would be almost like an umbrella piece that the Honda experience would benefit from,” Mr. Young Flores explained. Telstra’s reputation as Australia’s largest telecommunications company, coupled with its ability to avoid major hacking scandals in recent years, provides further reassurance to Accord owners regarding the security of their connected features.
While the advanced connected features of the new Honda Accord offer unprecedented convenience and functionality, it is crucial for both Honda and Telstra to remain vigilant in their efforts to protect against potential hacking threats. As technology continues to evolve and vehicles become increasingly connected, it is essential for manufacturers to prioritize robust security measures to safeguard their customers’ privacy and prevent unauthorized access to their vehicles.
Honda’s proactive approach to learning from the experiences of similar products in other markets and implementing appropriate security measures demonstrates their commitment to addressing the concerns surrounding internet-connected features in the automotive industry. By partnering with Telstra and leveraging their extensive security network, Honda aims to provide Accord owners with peace of mind, knowing that their vehicle’s advanced features are well-protected against potential hacking attempts.
As the automotive industry continues to embrace connectivity and digitalization, it is crucial for manufacturers to strike a balance between offering cutting-edge features and ensuring the highest levels of security. The new Honda Accord serves as an example of how automakers can address these challenges head-on, by prioritizing privacy and security from the outset and collaborating with trusted partners to provide comprehensive protection against digital intrusion.
