What We’re Reading

April 6, 2022

• Report from California Watchdog Group Calls for Privacy Protections from Connected Cars (Insurance Journal, March 30, 2022) 

In a new report, the nonprofit group Consumer Watchdog highlights what it perceives to be “privacy problems” with the type and volume of data collected and shared by connected cars.  Consumer Watchdog endorses upcoming changes to California law that the group views as protective against these “privacy problems,” including by requiring businesses to permit consumers to “opt out” of the sale or sharing of certain data such as geolocation data. Consumer Watchdog warns, however, of opposition to these changes.  For example, as noted in the linked Insurance Journal article, APCIA has lobbied for California to remove restrictions on usage-based insurance (“UBI”), arguing that such restrictions pre-date California data privacy laws that require owner consent before vehicle data can be accessed.   

We are curious to see how many drivers choose to “opt out” of data sharing, in California or otherwise, and the ripple effect that may have on ADAS development and other areas in which vehicle data is highly relevant. 

• Automakers look to cash in on software updates delivered remotely (NBC News, March 24, 2022) 

  Vehicle owners looking to enhance their driving experience no longer need to turn to aftermarket options or wait for the next model. Now, software updates can be delivered directly and on demand. The author reports that some updates are available for the cost of a cell phone app, while other updates come with a hefty price tag or require a monthly subscription. 

  And speaking of the privacy implications of connected cars . . . the author also notes that these updates raise “concerns about data privacy and security. The technology behind over-the-air updates can be used both to download software and to access personal information, which could put people’s personal data at risk, as well as their automobiles, said Benoit Joly, the chief commercialization officer for Wejo, a British-based auto data platform.” 

• Which Cars Have Self-Driving Features for 2022? (Cars.com, April 4, 2022) 

  In the market? This article provides a nice breakdown of the ADAS features that are now standard or optional on various model-year 2022 vehicles.