Brussels must act now before cyber laws block access to data, say independent repairers

The independent aftersales sector is calling on Brussels to stop dragging its feet and deliver sector-specific legislation on vehicle data access before new 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 companies, the insurance industry and consumers.

The majority of modern vehicles are connected and offer immense potential for safer, smarter and more affordable mobility for European consumers and businesses.

However, independent aftersales businesses claim the manufacturers’ quasi-monopoly control of vehicle data is impeding the development of services that they could offer. This limits service innovation and competition, restricting consumer and business choice, driving up prices and erodes Europe’s competitive position globally.

The group stresses the European Commission’s long-promised plan for a sector-specific legislation on access to in-vehicle data, functions, and resources is more necessary than ever. It insists that the Data Act neither addresses the quasi-monopolistic market structure nor the technical requirements in the automotive industry to make equitable data access a reality.

Action is urgent due to the regulatory cliff-edge in July when new cyber security laws kick in, potentially leading to the progressive shutdown of the only independent means of remote 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 legislation that protects consumer choice and encourages real competition and investment in digital transformation and data-driven businesses.

“Our efforts are hampered through the low quality, scarce and costly data made available by vehicle manufacturers. Fair access to vehicle data is essential in unlocking the full potential of innovative services, beneficial for consumers and all players in the aftermarket. A level playing field is needed to favour innovation for all players and not only a few,” said Karsten Schulze, ADAC technical services president.

“There is 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 put forward EU regulation. This will enable insurers to provide better products and services to support the climate transition and improve road safety. It will also help them understand and manage the risks related to new and future forms of mobility, such as 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 few big companies controlling data and instead create a competitive market that delivers for Europeans.”