The rise of connected cars has revolutionized the way we think about mobility. Equipped with sophisticated sensors and communication technologies, these vehicles collect vast amounts of data about drivers, passengers, and their surroundings. This data ranges from location and driving habits to more personal details like health information, especially when occupants use integrated infotainment systems or connected devices. As cars become more like computers on wheels, the question arises: who owns and controls this data, and how can we ensure it is handled responsibly?
Diogo Pinto is the Policy Director of the FIA European Bureau.
While data can help improve safety, efficiency, and the overall driving experience, the collection and use of this information raise significant privacy concerns. The automotive industry’s ability to gather, analyze, and share such data is outpacing the regulatory frameworks designed to protect individuals. In many cases, car owners have little awareness or control over how their data is used, and more importantly, how it’s shared with third parties.
At the FIA European Bureau, we believe it’s time to address these challenges head-on. As advocates for the rights of drivers and vehicle owners, we are pushing for clearer, more transparent rules that put individuals back in control of their data. This is why, in collaboration with Privacy4Cars, we are organizing an event titled “Driving Data Rights: enhancing privacy and control in connected cars” on 19 November in Brussels. The event aims to bring together policymakers, industry leaders, and civil society to discuss the current gaps between legislation and industry practices, and how we can ensure stronger data protection for all.
The gaps between legislation and practice
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has set a global standard for privacy protection, but its enforcement in the automotive sector still faces challenges. Many of the companies involved in the automotive data ecosystem—ranging from manufacturers to insurers, fleet managers, and service providers—often have more control over the data generated by vehicles than the drivers themselves. This imbalance is problematic: while drivers are the source of this data, they have limited access to or understanding of how it is processed or shared.
A recent study by Privacy4Cars highlights concerning trends in the industry, revealing that many companies are not fully compliant with GDPR requirements. Data transparency, security, and consent mechanisms are often inadequate, leaving consumers vulnerable to data misuse. These findings underscore the urgent need for reforms that give individuals greater control over their data, ensuring that privacy is not sacrificed in the name of innovation.
Balancing innovation with privacy
The potential benefits of connected car data are undeniable. From improving road safety to enabling predictive maintenance and enhancing the driving experience, data has the power to transform the automotive industry. However, this should not come at the cost of individual privacy rights.
As the automotive sector continues to evolve, it’s critical that regulators and industry stakeholders strike the right balance between innovation and privacy protection. Stronger enforcement of existing regulations, as well as the development of new frameworks that address the specificities of connected vehicles, are essential. Car owners should have a say in how their data is used and be able to trust that it is handled responsibly.
Shaping the future of data privacy in cars
The upcoming event on 19 November will serve as a platform to explore these issues in greater depth. Key stakeholders from the European Commission, the automotive industry, and privacy experts will gather to discuss the current regulatory landscape and what more can be done to protect individuals in this rapidly evolving space.
The agenda includes presentations from Privacy4Cars on the latest findings related to privacy practices in the automotive sector, a panel discussion featuring experts from the automotive industry, and case studies that illustrate real-world examples of data misuse and third-party access.
Our aim is to foster a meaningful dialogue that will lead to actionable recommendations for policymakers and industry leaders alike, and we are particularly focused on ensuring that the voices of drivers and car owners are heard in these discussions. As the automotive industry moves towards greater digitalization, it is crucial that privacy and data protection are placed at the forefront of the conversation.
Conclusion
Connected cars are the future of mobility, but this future must be built on a foundation of trust and transparency. By ensuring that individuals have control over their personal data, we can create a system that benefits everyone—drivers, manufacturers, and society as a whole. The FIA European Bureau is committed to working with all stakeholders to make this a reality.
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