Group Unveils Standards for “Digital Key” Tech

Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC), a 75-member group of carmakers, suppliers and tech companies, has developed first-round specs for “digital key” systems that allow consumers to use smartphones and other devices to lock, unlock and start a vehicle.

The technology would be especially useful in car-sharing services, because it allows multiple users to access the same vehicle without having to transfer a physical key. Audi, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Tesla and Volvo already offer their customers keyless digital systems.

CCC’s initial 1.0 specification provides a general deployment method for approved users to download a digital key onto their phone, which then uses near-field communication to interact with a target vehicle. An existing “trusted service manager” infrastructure would ensure security, according to the group.

The consortium is working on a 2.0 specification due in early 2019. This will create a standardized authentication protocol for phones and cars to allow for interoperability across car and phone brands.

CCC’s charter members include Apple, Audi, BMW, General Motors, Hyundai, LG Electronics, Panasonic, Samsung and Volkswagen. Other core members are Alps Electric, Continental, Denso, NXP and Qualcomm.

Car Connectivity was formed in 2011. The group is based in Beaverton, Ore.