DENSO has announced a significant investment in Dellfer, an IoT and automotive cybersecurity startup company based in San Francisco. Dellfer is a young startup focusing on cybersecurity solutions against “zero day” attacks within connected networks such as deployed IoT devices, and in the future, connected vehicles. Dellfer will use the proceeds from this funding to build out its development team and begin discussions with early adopter customers, including DENSO.

“As cars become smarter, more connected and autonomous, advanced safeguards to secure and protect the technology within those vehicles will be a key area of focus for DENSO, and the auto industry as a whole,” said Tony Cannestra, director of corporate ventures at DENSO. “DENSO will continue to strongly support technologies like Dellfer’s to ensure that a safe and secure mobility future is delivered to our customers.”

“This investment accelerates our mission for IoT device cyberspace protection against zero day attacks,” said James Blaisdell, CEO of Dellfer. “We look forward to a deep and fruitful partnership with DENSO to deliver advance safeguards for protecting vehicles.”

DENSO says it continues to evaluate technology investment opportunities for automotive solutions and innovative technologies with potentially significant implications for the future of transportation. The company is focused on advancing four core areas: connectivity, autonomous driving, shared mobility and electrification (CASE) technologies. DENSO opened a Silicon Valley office in 2011, and in 2014 created a dedicated Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) group to pursue early stage investment opportunities around the world with entrepreneurs and startup companies. The company also lends expertise and monetary support to two technology incubators – Prospect Silicon Valley and NextEnergy.