Smart Car Makers to Comply With 'Privacy Principles' Starting 2016

The handling of data generated by connected cars will be regulated by a set of “Privacy Principles” designed to protect user data starting January 2016, according to the Automobile Alliance.

In a letter to the Federal Trade Commision, the group of automakers said the new technologies and services offered by smart cars rely on information such as a vehicle`s location and driving details such as speed and braking force. Thus, they have taken measures to protect it.

“That is why the Alliance and Global Automakers have issued these Privacy Principles,” the Alliance said on its site. “The Principles provide an approach to customer privacy that members can choose to adopt when offering innovative vehicle technologies and services.”

The privacy principles apply to a wide variety of in-vehicle systems, such as safety-enhancing technologies, diagnosis of vehicle malfunctions, detection and prevention of vehicle theft, reduction of traffic congestion and navigation services, the document reads.

Key principles include transparency in communication and respect for content. Car owners will be informed through “ready access to clear, meaningful notices” regarding the use and sharing of their data, while also having “certain choices regarding the collection, use and sharing of covered information.”

Automakers also “commit to implementing reasonable measures to protect covered information against loss and unauthorized access or use,” according to the document.

Some of the participating car brands are American Honda, Aston Martin Lagonda, BMW, Chrysler, Ferrari, Ford, General Motors, Hyundai, Kia, Maserati, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Porsche, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen and Volvo.