Infographic Explores Driver Data Collection and Use in Connected Cars

FPF’s “Data and the Connected Vehicle” Demystifies Connected Car Ecosystem as Policymakers Look to Regulate

SEPT. 16, 2024 — Vehicle technologies are evolving rapidly, in every facet of the system, from safety features to entertainment, and occupant convenience. Many of these new features are enabled by the collection of driver and occupant data – and data collected from their surroundings – for vehicles to function and communicate with service providers, with one another, and with sensors on and around the road. An updated infographic from the Future of Privacy Forum (FPF) provides drivers with an understanding of how their data is collected and used in connected vehicles and how data flows in the connected vehicle ecosystem.

Individuals and policymakers have increasingly called for additional transparency regarding vehicle data and what happens with it. FPF’s updated Data and the Connected Vehicle infographic provides an accessible visual of the critical data flows in today’s connected vehicles and how they collect and use data and AI to operate different systems. 

“Most new vehicles have some, if not all, of the features outlined in Data and the Connected Vehicle, from wireless connectivity to cabin monitoring and microphones. To foster a trusted mobility ecosystem, it is vital that data is transferred respectfully and securely between a network of carmakers, vendors, and others to support individuals’ established safety, logistics, and information expectations,” said Adonne Washington, Policy Counsel of Data, Mobility, and Location at FPF and the project lead. “We created this project to demystify the behind-the-scenes of an everyday tool people rely on worldwide.”

A previous FPF survey found that many individuals value advanced vehicle safety technologies, but worry about the privacy risks, accuracy, cost, and data transfers to third parties. FPF’s infographic looks to clear misconceptions and clarify the privacy implications of connected cars and vehicle safety systems. This will be particularly pertinent, as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is establishing new safety technology requirements for vehicle manufacturers and policymakers are looking to establish specific vehicle data policies. 

“Data and the Connected Vehicle” updates a 2017 infographic created in response to the evolving landscape of smart and connected vehicles over the last few years.

“Ensuring privacy protections in vehicles is necessary, as is understanding how they work,” Washington continued, “As these systems continue to evolve and adapt to new driver accommodations, transparency will be key to their adoption and building trust between manufacturers, regulators, and consumers.”

Download the new infographic here. In connection with its launch, FPF will host a public webinar on September 18 with privacy leaders from major automotive manufacturers, including Ford, Rivian, and Honda, to discuss how data collection and processing have enabled many new features in connected cars. Learn more and register for the event here.