tech
February 10, 2026
Vehicle owners need control of their data
Over 60 years ago, The Jetsons imagined a future filled with flying cars. While we may not be soaring through the skies just yet, today’s vehicles are smarter, safer, and more connected than ever before. These advances promise efficiency and consumer comfort. But as vehicles become increasingly connected, a pressing question has emerged: who owns the data they generate?
TL;DR
- Vehicle manufacturers, not owners, currently control the data generated by connected cars.
- This practice is seen as a violation of privacy, autonomy, and property rights.
- Legislation is being proposed in Congress (Data Rights to Information and Vehicle Electronic Records Act, Auto Data Privacy and Autonomy Act) to give owners control over their vehicle's data.
- These bills aim to ensure owners can access their data without extra fees and control its sharing.
- Giving owners access to their data can benefit consumers, businesses, and the transportation system through improved maintenance, efficiency, and competition.
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