General Motors (GM) has applied for a patent involving the management of information from autonomous cars using blockchain technology. This was revealed on the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) website. This move highlights blockchain advances in transportation, showing how the technology can provide secure and efficient data sharing for autonomous vehicles.

The application describes a system where blockchain provides “robust” and “secure” information sharing. It enables an “interoperable exchange” between automated vehicles and other entities like municipalities, regional authorities, and public facilities.

The patent notes that autonomous vehicles require “high degrees of integrity for temporal event data.” However, it also emphasizes that blockchain is useful for semi-autonomous and non-autonomous vehicles.

Filed on May 25, 2017, the application explains that blockchain enables distributed consensus of trust. All transactions can be verified later by blockchain participants without compromising privacy.

Blockchain’s Role in Autonomous Cars

The patent proposes using a blockchain system to share various types of information. This includes resources, practical needs, and legal records. For example, blockchain can help with route navigation, charging and refueling services, and verifying permits and licenses for vehicles like taxis and for-hire services. It can also manage balances for parking, tolls, fee-based services, and car washes.

The document also advises caution. It recommends implementing a blockchain exchange that only sends approved, vetted, and secure location-based information to occupants of autonomous vehicles.

GM’s patent shows that blockchain technology is starting to enter the transportation sector. The system could enable interaction with highway and traffic management systems and users of autonomous cars. This would be done through an online or cloud blockchain ledger. It would help enter and distribute information from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA).

General Motors is actively pursuing a role in the blockchain industry. This summer, GM joined the Mobility Open Blockchain Initiative (MOBI) with BMW, Renault, and Ford.

In conclusion

General Motors has filed for a blockchain patent that will see the company using a blockchain solution to manage information from autonomous vehicles. The patent proposes that the blockchain system can use the information for a range of “practical needs, resources, and legal needs.” This development is a clear example of blockchain advances in transportation, showcasing how blockchain technology can support autonomous vehicle data management and legal compliance.

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