Connected car tech raises concerns over driver tracking
As new cars gain advanced connectivity and diagnostics, privacy campaigners warn that government tracking of drivers could become a reality.
The spread of advanced connectivity in new cars is fuelling debate over whether governments could use vehicle data to track citizens’ movements. As manufacturers equip models with always-on internet, satellite links and over-the-air software updates, privacy campaigners are raising concerns about the potential for state surveillance.
On-board diagnostics (OBD) have been standard in Europe and the US for decades, originally to help identify emissions and engine faults. The current OBD II system is already capable of logging a wide range of information, but the next generation, often dubbed OBD III, could see cars transmitting data remotely in real time. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is developing standards for such systems, which could influence global regulation.
How connected cars collect and transmit data
Many new vehicles, including models from Tesla and other major manufacturers, now ship with built-in mobile data connections. These allow for remote diagnostics, software updates and sometimes even enable features like automatic parking or remote unlocking. The same systems can, in principle, record location, speed, and usage patterns. While these features are promoted as improving convenience and safety, they also create a detailed log of vehicle activity.
Manufacturers state that data is used for diagnostics, warranty, or customer support. But if regulators required access to this information, the same technology could be adapted for monitoring compliance with emissions rules or even tracking vehicle movements. At present, there is no legal requirement in the UK or EU for cars to transmit location data to authorities. However, some US states have piloted schemes where remote diagnostics could be used to enforce emissions compliance or road usage charges.
Privacy and regulation
Privacy advocates argue that the infrastructure now being built into cars could be used to erode personal privacy if governments decided to mandate access. The technical capability for real-time tracking exists, but its use depends on future legal and regulatory decisions. European data protection laws currently restrict the sharing of personally identifiable information without consent, but campaigners warn that these protections could be weakened by new legislation targeting emissions, safety or taxation.
For now, most car data remains in the hands of manufacturers or their technology suppliers. Any move to require real-time location reporting from private vehicles would need new laws and would likely face legal and political challenges. The debate is set to continue as more vehicles become connected by default and as governments look for new ways to enforce road rules and environmental standards.
