SEALSQ and IC'ALPS Join Forces to Advance Post-Quantum Secure ASICs for Automotive Functional Safety

Core Viewpoint - SEALSQ Corp has announced a strategic collaboration with IC'ALPS to enhance automotive safety and security through the development of Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) that integrate post-quantum cryptography and functional safety mechanisms [1][9]. Company Overview - SEALSQ Corp focuses on developing and selling semiconductor, PKI, and post-quantum technology hardware and software products, with applications across various sectors including automotive, industrial automation, and healthcare [11]. - IC'ALPS specializes in custom integrated circuits and has a proven track record in automotive applications, particularly in power management ICs and functional safety [2][10]. Strategic Collaboration - The partnership aims to redefine automotive safety by integrating SEALSQ's post-quantum secure technology into IC'ALPS' automotive ASIC designs, ensuring compliance with ISO 26262 standards [4][5]. - SEALSQ is in exclusive negotiations to acquire 100% of IC'ALPS, pending due diligence and regulatory approvals [1]. Industry Context - Modern vehicles contain over 1,400 semiconductor components, with electronics accounting for over 40% of a vehicle's cost, a significant increase from 18% in the early 2000s [3]. - As vehicles become more autonomous and connected, the demand for ASICs that guarantee safety, reliability, and compliance with rigorous standards is increasing [3]. Technical Advancements - The collaboration will enable the development of ASICs designed for functional safety, incorporating robust cryptographic resistance against quantum threats [4][6]. - ASICs will consolidate multiple functions into a single chip, improving reliability and system efficiency while ensuring compliance with technical safety requirements [5][6]. Challenges and Solutions - The development of automotive ASICs requires close collaboration between IC designers and system architects to translate Automotive Safety Integrity Level (ASIL) requirements into chip-level safety mechanisms [7]. - IC'ALPS and SEALSQ are co-developing methodologies to ensure safety goals are traceable and measurable, supported by IC'ALPS' expertise in application-level validation [7][8]. Future Vision - The partnership is positioned to shape the future of automotive security by embedding post-quantum cryptography and functional safety directly into automotive ASICs, paving the way for smarter and safer electric, connected, and autonomous vehicles [9].