Companies including BlackBerry QNX, headquartered in Ottawa, and Escrypt, based in Waterloo, Ont., are among those leading the charge on vehicle cybersecurity.

The software uses the vehicle's powertrain and climate control systems to heat the cabin to 56 C or 133 F for 15 minutes, baking potential viruses.

The Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association and CloudGRC Inc. have launched the APMA Institute of Automotive Cybersecurity in response to companies doing more work from home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The technology, internally called Ultra Cruise, expands on the Super Cruise feature that works on highways only.