A new act in Europe – the EU Data Act – came into effect last week, which – according to UK magazine, BodyShop – could mean substantial changes for repairers in the continent.
The EU Data Act allows motorists to access all data generated by their connected vehicles and then share it with third parties, such as repairers.
Previously, this data was held by vehicle manufacturers and gave them and their approved network of repairers a competitive advantage over the rest of the UK aftermarket.
However, under the EU Data Act, independents will be able access key vehicle information such as real-time diagnostics, service histories, and vehicle performance data without waiting for manufacturer approval.
This should promote competition and allow independent body shops to deliver repairs quicker and more accurately.
“From today the EU Data Act takes effect in Europe and for the first time drivers, not manufacturers, decide who can see the data their cars generate. With a driver’s permission, an independent garage, dealer or insurer can access diagnostics or service histories directly, instead of being shut out by closed OEM systems,” CTO and founder at Digidentity, Marcel Wendt, told UK BodyShop magazine last week.
“For the aftermarket this is a fundamental change. It levels the playing field for independents who can now compete on speed, transparency and service quality. That means faster diagnostics, predictive maintenance and the ability to build new services around connected car data. It moves the conversation from who controls the data to who can use it responsibly.
“While the regulation applies in the EU, the UK market will feel the effects too. Many of the same connected platforms are sold here, and drivers are likely to expect garages and service providers to offer the same level of control.
“The reality is that implementation will be uneven. Very few manufacturers currently comply with the Act, so independents should expect a transition period where requests are difficult or delayed until OEM systems catch up.
According to Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association’s (AAAA) Director of Government Relations and Advocacy, Lesley Yates, Australia is still some way behind the EU Act.
There is disparity within Australian government as to whether connected vehicle data falls under the jurisdiction of consumer rights or the Motor Vehicle Information Scheme (MVIS).
Yates said that AAAA is actively advocating for connected data to be included in the MVIS.
The full UK BodyShop Magazine article can be found here