Securing New Autonomous Truck-Trailer Communication Protocols

Autonomous truck-trailer communication requires high bandwidth and low latency when sensors are added to trailer to increase the capabilities of the self-driving software in the truck such as reverse driving. Legacy communications use powerline carrier communications at 9600 baud, so upfitting existing trailers for autonomous operations will require adopting technologies like Ethernet or a wireless harness between the truck and the trailer. This would require additional security measures and architecture, especially when pairing a tractor with a trailer. Security measures will vary depending on the type of communication which complicates the implementation and integration process. In this paper, we discuss the current challenges and threats on an autonomous truck-trailer communication when Ethernet or a wireless harness is used, the impact on the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) lifecycle. In addition to using Named Data Networking (NDN) to secure in-vehicle and cloud communication. Using a wireless medium will have a significant impact on the ECU lifecycle which requires additional development and lifecycle consideration, in addition to a secure architecture. Named Data Networking can reduce the complexity of the security of the in-vehicle communication networks where it provides a networking solution with security by design. NDN is still under development and has a strong potential for standardization for automotive applications to provide networking and security solutions simultaneously.