Porsche in Russia: Cars cannot be started

Numerous Porsche cars in Russia can no longer be started. The problem apparently originates from the satellite-based alarm system. Porsche states it has nothing to do with it.

Since the end of November, workshops have been receiving an increasing number of inquiries from Russian Porsche owners because their vehicles can no longer be started. This is reported by the Russian media group RBK. The dealer chain Rolf, which also sells Porsches, explained that it is possible that this happened intentionally. Similar situations have occurred with Mercedes-Benz owners, but much less frequently, and those vehicles can still be used.

Hundreds of Porsche vehicles across Russia are reportedly no longer operational due to communication issues or malfunctions of the alarm system (VTS). Some affected individuals were able to help themselves by disconnecting the battery. The dealer chain Rolf is assisting its customers by resetting and dismantling the alarm system of affected vehicles. According to the dealer, no limitations can be made regarding affected models; any vehicle can be blocked.

It wasn't Porsche

The specific cause remains unknown, and investigations are ongoing. Porsche stated to the magazine Auto Motor und Sport that it is not the responsibility of Porsche AG, as it is a country-specific version. Other markets are not affected. The company complies with all applicable economic sanctions against Russia.

This incident once again highlights the potential impact of extensive electronics in cars on vehicle safety. This can apparently be exploited as an entry point for attacks. As early as a decade ago, IT security researchers demonstrated how they had taken control of a Jeep – over the internet.

Only somewhat older Porsche models may be impacted. Since March 2022, the company has suspended the delivery of vehicles to Russia in the course of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine.

(dmk)