The independent aftersales sector is looking on Brussels to stop dragging its feet and deliver sector-specific laws on vehicle data access before latest cyber security laws kick in and risks blocking efforts.
Together the coalition represents 80% of the European automotive economy and includes automotive parts suppliers and distributors, workshops and their technology suppliers, mobility services firms, the insurance industry and consumers.
Nearly all of modern vehicles are connected and offer immense potential for safer, smarter and cheaper mobility for European consumers and businesses.
Nevertheless, independent aftersales businesses claim the manufacturers’ quasi-monopoly control of auto data is impeding the event of services that they may offer. This limits service innovation and competition, restricting consumer and business alternative, driving up prices and erodes Europe’s competitive position globally.
The group stresses the European Commission’s long-promised plan for a sector-specific laws on access to in-vehicle data, functions, and resources is more vital than ever. It insists that the Data Act neither addresses the quasi-monopolistic market structure nor the technical requirements within the automotive industry to make equitable data access a reality.
Motion is urgent attributable to the regulatory cliff-edge in July when latest cyber security laws kick in, potentially resulting in the progressive shutdown of the one independent technique of distant access to vehicle data via the onboard diagnostic port.
The coalition said the EU must urgently put in place equal access to vehicle-generated data for all market actors by delivering sector-specific laws that protects consumer alternative and encourages real competition and investment in digital transformation and data-driven businesses.
“Our efforts are hampered through the low quality, scarce and dear data made available by vehicle manufacturers. Fair access to vehicle data is crucial in unlocking the total potential of progressive services, useful for consumers and all players within the aftermarket. A level playing field is required to favour innovation for all players and never only a number of,” said Karsten Schulze, ADAC technical services president.
“There’s currently no level playing field in accessing vehicle data which is stifling competition and innovation. The European Commission must stop dragging its feet and urgently recommend EU regulation. It will enable insurers to offer higher services and products to support the climate transition and improve road safety. It’s going to also help them understand and manage the risks related to latest and future types of mobility, similar to autonomous driving,” said Yann Arnaud, director of customer needs & innovation at MACIF, the French insurer, speaking on behalf of the European insurance sector.
“Opening data access will prevent a number of big firms controlling data and as a substitute create a competitive market that delivers for Europeans.”
This Article First Appeared At www.am-online.com
