Privacy Debate: High Tech Cars, Tracking, Info Sharing

Politicians in California are to consider a proposed law that would give drivers more control over what happens to data gathered in their high-tech cars. It's prompted a heated debate between driver clubs and automobile manufacturers.

According to senator Bill Monning, around one in five new cars are designed to automatically send data to manufacturers. That proportion is expected to grow rapidly in the next 10 years as more cars integrate mobile technology and rely heavily on electronic control systems. (Source: latimes.com)

The type of data collected varies widely. In some cases it's performance issues such as how long it takes engines to develop faults and under what circumstances. In other cases, its more personal information such as cellphone use or exactly where people have driven.

Car Data Sharing A Privacy Issue

Although manufacturers say that buyers are already always told how this data will be used and shared, supporters of the bill dispute that fact. Often, such details are buried in small print. It's argued that drivers don't always know whether the manufacturer will pass the data on to other organizations, such as marketing firms.

The law would mean all car buyers have the right to know exactly what data is gathered and sent to auto makers. It would also mean drivers have the right to access the information themselves and to pass it on to third parties of their choosing, such as servicing centers.

While Monning is the official author of the bill, two non-profit auto clubs in the state have developed most of the proposals. They say it would benefit consumers because it would give them more options for shopping around to get servicing work.

At the moment that can be difficult, because only servicers authorized by the manufacturer can access the data.

In the case of a college history professor from Santa Monica, the latter point was underscored when he took his Prius to his preferred repair shop. The car's check engine light was on, but the mechanic was unable to gain access to the engine performance data unless he paid a hefty $135 fee to the manufacturer, Toyota.

Auto Makers Say Insurers Will Misuse Car Data

Major automakers denounce the bill, citing that it is nothing more than an "AAA insurance data grab." They claim that the state's two non-profit auto clubs are in fact run by large insurance companies, merely acting as a front.

They say it's a trick to allow insurers to get hold of driving data and penalize customers who drive at high speeds, spend a lot of time on highways, or show signs of driving dangerously such as excessive braking. (Source: fresnobee.com)

Monning says that is not the case. He notes that the bill specifically preserves existing rules which say that the only car data insurers can use to determine annual rates is the mileage used on the car.

What's Your Opinion?

Do you believe it is your right to have access to your car's data, and share it with third parties of your choosing? Are you concerned about how your car's data is used by third-parties with or without your consent? Do you think there's a risk that such data could lead to insurance premium hikes? Lastly, are you bothered that some cars are able to track and record data about you, including driving habits and where you've been?