Tata Motors collaborates with HackersEra, an automotive cybersecurity firm, in order to enhance the cybersecurity architecture of the Tata Sierra.ev in accordance with the AIS-189 vehicle type approval requirements set forth by India. This included testing on both the vehicle level and ECU level, along with supplier cybersecurity coordination.
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Why is Cybersecurity Important for EVs?
The latest models of electric cars tend to be more connected and software-based than previous generations. Electronic Control Units (ECUs), communication systems, connectivity features, and software may introduce certain cybersecurity implications beyond those of a typical car.
According to HackersEra, the company performed an extensive cybersecurity assessment of the vehicle and each individual ECU on board Sierra.ev. HackersEra also cooperated with Tier-1 and Tier-2 suppliers to analyze any possible risks and develop security measures.
What Is AIS-189?
AIS-189 is the framework set up by India for the cybersecurity requirements of vehicles. In June 2026, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways came out with draft regulations related to vehicle cybersecurity for classes L, M, and N as per the AIS-189 and AIS-190 standards.
This makes cybersecurity more pertinent for the Indian automotive industry.
What Does It Imply for Sierra.ev Owners?
This extends beyond mere compliance.
A luxury EV like Sierra.ev includes not only an electric propulsion system but also a vast network of electronic and connected systems. Hence, cybersecurity becomes one of the many issues related to the safety and reliability of the vehicle.
The collaboration with HackersEra involved risk management and validation testing to make the Sierra.ev ready for AIS-189 cybersecurity vehicle type approval.
Nevertheless, potential customers need to understand the difference between cybersecurity preparedness and immunity to all cyber threats in the future.
BudgetEV can be used by anyone interested in following the Sierra.ev along with other EVs on the market.
EV Security Picture Gets Bigger
As Indian manufacturers move beyond battery range and charging time, cybersecurity will become another aspect of the design and development process for electric vehicles.
This means that for carmakers, security cannot be an afterthought anymore. It needs to be tested in vehicle systems, ECUs and even through the entire supply chain.
Explore BudgetEV for more practical analysis of the technology and engineering changes shaping India's electric-vehicle market.
FAQs
1. What is AIS-189?
It is the Indian standard for the cybersecurity of vehicles. Draft guidelines in reference to AIS-189 and AIS-190 were made public by the government of India in June 2026.
2. Why is it necessary for the Sierra.ev to be cybersecurity tested?
As it has electronically controlled components, cybersecurity testing is very significant in the development of the Sierra.ev and for type approval.
3. What cybersecurity testing was performed on the Sierra.ev?
According to HackersEra, cybersecurity testing was done for the Sierra.ev vehicle and the ECU levels with mitigation of risks being undertaken.
4. Does AIS-189 ensure that the EV cannot be hacked?
Absolutely not. Compliances for the standard are meant to create cybersecurity requirements and control measures but it should not be seen as a guarantee for the vehicle not to have cybersecurity threats.
5. Why is EV cybersecurity getting more and more critical?
As the technology advances, it becomes more and more software-based and connected.