European Regulations: A Boon for Collecting and Using OEM Data

European regulations are enhancing the privacy and security of consumer data while making it easier to collect and use vehicle data. Mathieu Chènebit, CEO of Echoes, discusses the impact of these regulations on vehicle data collection and usage.

How Have European and National Data Regulations Impacted Vehicle Data Sourcing and Usage in the Last 10 Years?

Mathieu Chènebit: European regulations have consistently moved towards easier access to vehicle data and an increased need to use it. A significant milestone was the EU Regulation on April 28, 2015, which mandated the eCall system in all new vehicle models from March 31, 2018. The eCall system includes:

  • Permanent 2G and 4G connectivity

  • Real-time vehicle geolocation

  • Sensors to detect accidents

  • A computer to process data and trigger emergency calls

This regulation laid the groundwork for data collection and transmission, essential for Echoes’ CarFleet and CarLocate tools. The Data Act, published in December 2023, further encourages data sharing by stating that products and services must be designed to make data easily and securely accessible to users.

What About GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation)?

MC: Under GDPR, Echoes is a data processor, meaning we handle data on behalf of our customers. We may assist clients, at their request, in setting up rules to ensure GDPR compliance. Echoes is committed to GDPR principles with actions such as:

  • Developing our platform with “GDPR by design,” ensuring privacy and data protection from the design phase of our system, and then throughout its lifecycle.

  • Publishing and regularly updating a Data Protection Agreement (DPA) for our customers.

  • Employing an outsourced Data Protection Officer (DPO) who audits our GDPR compliance.

Practically, Echoes requires the owner’s consent and proof of ownership to process data and can guide customers in ensuring compliance for end-users.

What About Future European Regulations?

MC: Future regulations will significantly impact vehicle data collection and usage. For example:

  • The ban on ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) vehicles by 2035 in most European countries and by 2030 in the UK necessitates a transition to electric vehicles, requiring detailed vehicle usage data analysis.

  • The CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive) mandates non-financial reports on environmental, social, and governance aspects, requiring reliable data on fleet vehicles.

Overall, European regulations support the collection and use of OEM data, pushing for greener, safer, and more connected vehicles. This trend leads to higher vehicle costs and TCO (Total Cost of Ownership), which companies must manage through data-driven fleet monitoring and management solutions.

Conclusion

European regulations are driving the transformation of fleet management through better data access and usage. By complying with these regulations, Echoes is well-positioned to help companies optimize their fleet operations and prepare for future challenges.

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