Google: Self-driving Cars To Be Launched Offline To Prevent Hacking

An autonomous car (also known as a driver-less car, auto, self-driving car,robotic car) is a vehicle that is capable of sensing its environment and navigating without human input. Autonomous cars use a variety of techniques to detect their surroundings, such as radar, laser light, GPS, odometer, and computer vision. Advanced control systems interpret sensory information to identify appropriate navigation paths, as well as obstacles and relevant signage. Autonomous cars have control systems that are capable of analyzing sensory data to distinguish between different cars on the road, which is very useful in planning a path to the desired destination.

Google has confirmed that it is going to take self-driving cars from the internet to prevent their technology from hackers, according to the chief executive of its driver-less car program.

It is not possible to disconnect from the outside world entirely however as autonomous vehicles require the means to communicate with other traffic and infrastructure to furnish them with advance warning of potential dangers.

Driverless cars are particularly vulnerable to criminals as their components are all connected on a central system, giving hackers multiple routes to break into the system and assume control of key functions.

The decision highlights just how seriously Google is treating cyber security after rival car manufacturers Nissan and Fiat Chrysler fell victim to criminal hacks.