Nissan disables Leaf app over hack

Nissan has disabled a mobile app – not available in New Zealand – that allows control of certain non-crucial controls in the Nissan Leaf.

The move came after a security researcher demonstrated how hackers could access temperature controls and other functions from across continents.

Australian researcher Troy Hunt proved he could hack his friend’s Leaf in the United Kingdom and access information about the battery status and climate controls.

The only key information he needed was the cars Vehicle Identification Number – visible at the bottom of the windscreen.

Nissan apologised on its Facebook page after disabling the electric car’s app and said it is working on an updated version.