Are Electric Vehicles (EVs) Really More Vulnerable to Disable Than Conventional Vehicles?

There's a common belief circulating online that electric vehicles (EVs) are more vulnerable to disablement compared to conventional vehicles, often framed as an anti-EV talking point. As an IT engineer with firsthand experience owning several EVs, I aim to provide a more balanced and technical perspective on this claim.

Tech-Savvy Vulnerabilities of EVs

EVs are often interconnected via the internet to facilitate software updates. On the other hand, most conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles don't currently have internet connectivity, instead requiring physical intervention to update their systems at the dealership. As technology advances, this gap is narrowing, with all cars eventually anticipated to have internet connectivity.

Earthquake in the IT World

While modern EVs rely heavily on internet connectivity, this also introduces vulnerabilities. The latest software updates can be pushed remotely, but it takes a specific skill set to perform such actions without authorization. In the EV realm, one needs root-level access to perform such hacks, which is indeed valuable, but not as common as some might believe.

Physical Vulnerabilities: A Level Playing Field

Some point to physical vulnerabilities as a way to disable a vehicle. Removing tires can effectively immobilize a vehicle, whether it's an EV or ICE. Moreover, electronically controlled combustion engines are not immune to disablement. Without opening the hood, one can disable the engine using the correct pressure point, exploiting safety mechanisms in place, such as the fuel safety cut-off switch.

Old School Tricks

In the early days of electronic ignition systems, unshielded wiring harnesses made vehicles susceptible to RFI interference. This could cause the engine to stop functioning, as demonstrated by the author's uncle. Although modern vehicles are better shielded, a simple hole in the radiator or an unplugged control panel can still disable an ICE vehicle.

The Question of Motivation

While technical vulnerabilities exist in EVs, they are not a significant threat unless the hacker has a specific set of skills and a strong motivation. For the average person, there are far easier methods to disable a vehicle, such as striking the correct pressure point on the engine or disabling the fuel supply.

The Human Factor

Many people with the ability to hack EVs are already EV owners. They have a vested interest in ensuring their vehicles are secure and can be modified for personal use. Therefore, unless an individual is malicious and has a specific reason to target someone, there's no real threat.

The Role of Law Enforcement

It's important to note that if law enforcement wants to pull you over, they will do so regardless of whether you disable your vehicle. They have advanced technology that can track your movements, even if you try to run away. The resources allocated to pursue such offenses are limited, and pursuing an individual for disabling a vehicle is not a priority.

Conclusion: A Balanced View

While EVs do have technical vulnerabilities due to their reliance on internet connectivity, these can be mitigated with proper security measures. Conventional vehicles also have physical vulnerabilities that can be exploited with ease. Therefore, the claim that EVs are more vulnerable to disablement is more of an anti-EV talking point than a factual statement. The reality is that for most individuals, the safest and easiest way to disable a vehicle is through physical means, regardless of the vehicle type.

It's crucial to focus on the genuine security measures that can protect both EVs and conventional vehicles rather than highlighting theoretical vulnerabilities that can be exploited by a small and motivated group of individuals.