General Motors (GM) Files New Blockchain Patent Application To Manage Automated Car Data

Blockchain technology has been finding multiple uses lately, which has caught the attention of General Motors. On Thursday, their patent application was published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, detailing the way that they could use blockchain to store the information gathered by their automated cars. This information would then be shared from GM Global Technology Operations LLC with their users.

GM’s application was originally filed in May last year, discusses the way that blockchain could provided greater security for distributing important information between automated cars and other entities.

Using a blockchain that connects local authorities, public facilities, or more could help with the process of evaluating the,

“validity of permits and licenses to operate as hacks, taxis, or other for-hire services.”

Something as small as a ticket on a vehicle could be shared on the blockchain as well. If payments are incorporated into the system, then users could even keep a balance for their tolls, parking fees, and other payments associated with their vehicle.

The firm also explained in the patent application that this blockchain-based data could help with navigation.

They noted,

“It is desirable to provide locations information and densities of vehicles in regions in an online blockchain ledger for interoperable information sharing between vehicles of participants for use in navigating routes.”

In March, GM had announced the production of their autonomous vehicles within the next year, though the venture into their uses of blockchain technology is an endeavor they have already begun working on. They also decided to join up with other vehicle companies to create the Mobility Open Blockchain Initiative (MOBI), like BMW, Ford, and Renault. Hopefully, this will help with the progress of blockchain technology in the auto industry.