Europe's connected car industry continues to face obstacles to fair competition, despite legislation designed to give drivers greater control over their vehicle data.

A new study by automotive data specialist CARUSO has found that many manufacturers still restrict access to information generated by connected vehicles. These limitations affect independent businesses offering maintenance, insurance and digital mobility services.

The findings raise concerns about the effectiveness of the EU Data Act, which became applicable in September 2025.

What The Study Reveals

The CARUSO Connected Vehicle Field Test examined data-sharing arrangements across 28 vehicle manufacturer groups and assessed 15 potential automotive applications.

The results revealed significant shortcomings. Approximately 68% of manufacturers lacked suitable technical interfaces for automated data access, while 64% had no appropriate pricing arrangements for independent service providers.

Furthermore, 57% of manufacturers did not support any of the applications examined. These limitations make it difficult for independent businesses to develop services compatible with multiple vehicle brands. Although some manufacturers have improved their systems, substantial differences remain in data availability, technical quality and commercial conditions.

Why Vehicle Data Matters

Modern connected cars generate information about their condition, performance and operation. With drivers' permission, this data can support predictive maintenance, remote diagnostics and personalised insurance services. For example, independent repair companies could identify developing mechanical problems before a breakdown occurs.

Fleet operators could also monitor vehicles from different manufacturers through a single digital platform. However, such services require reliable information and compatible technical systems.

When manufacturers restrict access or use incompatible interfaces, developing independent solutions becomes considerably more expensive.

Why The Data Act Falls Short

The EU Data Act gives users the right to access certain information generated by connected products and share it with authorised third parties. For drivers, this creates opportunities to use independent automotive services. However, legal access does not necessarily guarantee practical availability.

Some manufacturers still require complicated registration procedures or manual approval processes.

Others provide limited datasets, downloadable files instead of automated interfaces, or commercial terms that make independent services financially unattractive. Consequently, businesses may struggle to develop competitive products despite the legislation.

Industry Groups Call For Changes

European automotive organisations are calling for clearer technical requirements and stronger enforcement. Their proposals include transparent pricing, standardised data interfaces and improved compatibility between manufacturers. Independent providers also want appropriate access to vehicle functions needed for maintenance and digital services.

Supporters believe these changes could encourage innovation and give drivers greater freedom to choose service providers. However, any expanded access must also protect personal information, cybersecurity and commercially sensitive data.

What This Means For Drivers

The European Commission has acknowledged that connected vehicles may require additional sector-specific measures. Further regulation could improve data-sharing arrangements and reduce barriers facing independent businesses.

For motorists, greater competition could eventually provide more maintenance options, improved digital services and greater control over vehicle information.

The CARUSO study suggests that European automotive data legislation has established important rights, but technical and commercial restrictions continue to limit their practical benefits.