The Committee to Nuke Elysium

For example, when a Mercedes-Benz driver requests data from the internet, this is processed via an external Daimler back end server. The data then move to the car via a secure virtual private network connection.

Many carmakers now offer customers downloadable apps such as via Toyota Motor’s Touch, Ford’s Sync and Chrysler’s Uconnect systems. However, these tend not to be fully open but rather offer a limited number of secure, approved apps.

Mr Hoheisel, at Bosch, says: “At the moment we don’t have open app stores in the car industry – these are really protected and shielded systems.”

A Ford spokesman says that “the safety, privacy and security of our customers is paramount” and therefore any software updates are “code-signed” and must be recognised as coming from Ford in order to update its Sync system.