Auto industry bodies call for ‘fair access’ to in-vehicle data
Multiple key representative bodies of the automotive aftermarket and tyre makers have called on the European Commission to come forward this year with a clear legal framework for fair access to in-vehicle data for independent service providers and vehicle manufacturers alike.
The European Tyre & Rubber Manufacturers Association (ETRMA), which represents 14 world-leading tyre companies, said the European Commission providing clear legal framework for fair access to in-vehicle data would be “an important milestone” in the effort to make connected and automated mobility a reality.
ETRMA stated that the framework must ensure a level playing field for all vehicle manufacturers, in order to “ensure that Europe keeps pace with technological evolution and the development of the platform market.”
Meanwhile, the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) and FIGIEFA have said the European Commission should take on board a proposal for a Secure On-board Telematics Platform (S-OTP) – allowing access for independent service providers – when legislating on access to in-vehicle data.
FIGIEFA said this is the only solution guaranteeing true consumer choice, effective competition and independent entrepreneurship in a secure and technology-neutral manner.
It added that the intention of the S-OTP is to ensure that consumers can still choose and rely on service providers, many of them SMEs, to benefit from innovative, competitive and affordable services and products, improving road mobility, safety and sustainability.
To do so, service providers have to be able to compete with all mobility stakeholders, some of whom might be tempted to act as “gatekeepers” through proprietary access methods to in-vehicle data.
IAAF chief executive Wendy Williamson said that current in-vehicle access platforms that are controlled and operated by vehicle manufacturers “restrict businesses from embracing digital opportunities, jeopardises consumer choice, innovation and a growing economy. This solution ensures safety and security is maintained. whilst safeguarding competition, innovation and consumer choice”.
