Cap HPI is urging the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) to help create a new ethical charter with its members around connected car data.
Christopher Wright, managing director at Cap HPI and vice president North Europe for Solera, the vehicle data specialist’s parent company, has written to Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, to push for further collaboration on how the industry handles customer and connected car data.
The Ethical Data Charter would draw on other examples that have already been established from Silicon Valley, like Apple and Microsoft.
In the letter to Hawes, Wright said: “As the sector increasingly relies on data to drive innovation, streamline operations, and enhance consumer experiences, adopting a robust framework that ensures the ethical collection, use, and management of data is imperative.
“Such a charter would safeguard consumers’ trust and position the automotive industry as a leader in responsible data governance.”
Cap HPI said the industry stands at a critical juncture where the volume and sensitivity of data collected-ranging from consumer behaviour to vehicle telemetry-pose both opportunities and risks.
Principles enshrined in regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) have provided a baseline for data protection, but an Ethical Data Charter would go further, “fostering transparency, accountability and trust”.
An automotive Ethical Data Charter would address industry-specific concerns such as:
- Consumer Transparency: Clearly informing customers about what data is collected, why it is used, and how it is stored or shared.
- Fair Use: Ensuring data is used responsibly and only for purposes aligned with consumer expectations.
- Data scraping: A call for the end to data scraping to protect companies’ intellectual property and copyright.
- Algorithmic Accountability: Evaluating the impact of automated systems on fairness, particularly as Al is increasingly integrated into vehicle functionality and customer interactions.
- Collaborative Governance: Establishing cross-industry boards to oversee adherence to ethical data standards.
Wright added: “The benefits of such a charter are manifold. For businesses, it reduces regulatory risks and enhances consumer trust, fostering long-term loyalty.
“For consumers, it offers greater agency and assurance in an era where personal and behavioural data is increasingly valuable.
“For the industry as a whole, it reinforces its commitment to innovation that respects privacy and fairness.”