It is fascinating that the internal IP network in the Model S contains IP addresses that
appear to be running the Linux operating system (Ubuntu).
There have not been any public reports of these services being abused. However, this
information is worth mentioning since it gives us perspective on the IP-based architecture in
the Model S. It is likely that additional researchers as well as malicious parties will be drawn
to investigating this IP-based internal network for potential attack vectors and vulnerabilities
that may lie undiscovered.
AutoPilot and the Autonomous Car
In October 2014, Tesla announced that all new Model S cars would contain hardware to
enable autopilot functionality, with software updates to be issued to the cars in the coming
months providing various safety features (other cars also have similar features; however, we
will stick to Tesla since the Model S is our focus). Here is the description from Tesla:
The launch of Dual Motor Model S coincides with the introduction of a standard hardware pack-
age that will enable autopilot functionality. Every single Model S now rolling out of the factory
includes a forward radar, 12 long range ultrasonic sensors positioned to sense 16 feet around the car
in every direction at all speeds, a forward looking camera, and a high precision, digitally controlled
electric assist braking system.
Building on this hardware with future software releases, we will deliver a range of active safety fea-
tures, using digital control of motors, brakes, and steering to avoid collisions from the front, sides,
or from leaving the road.
Model S will be able to steer to stay within a lane, change lanes with the simple tap of a turn sig-
nal, and manage speed by reading road signs and using active, traffic aware cruise control.Tesla is careful to note that this feature is not completely autonomous:Our goal with the introduction of this new hardware and software is not to enable driverless cars,
which are still years away from becoming a reality. Our system is called Autopilot because it’s simi-
lar to systems that pilots use to increase comfort and safety when conditions are clear. Tesla’s Auto-
pilot is a way to relieve drivers of the most boring and potentially dangerous aspects of road travel –
but the driver is still responsible for, and ultimately in control of, the car.And to sum it up:The Autopilot hardware opens up some exciting long term possibilities. Imagine having your car
check your calendar in the morning (a feature introduced in Software v6.0), calculate travel time
to your first appointment based on real time traffic data, automatically open the garage door with
Homelink, carefully back out of a tight garage, and pull up to your door ready for your commute.THE TESLA MODEL S 185