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The FIA European Bureau (EB) commissioned a survey to assess drivers’ awareness on connected vehicles, and their preferences towards vehicle maintenance and in-vehicle data collection.
This survey should be seen in conjunction with the previous FIA EB survey on European attitudes towards connected vehicles from 2016. In this edition of the survey, questions were added regarding prices and preferences of drivers when it comes to maintenance services on their vehicles. The survey covers 11 countries (Germany, Spain, Italy, France, Finland, Denmark, Poland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Austria and the Czech Republic) and has a sample size of 11,011 total respondents.
The results of this year’s survey show that 59% do not think their car is connected. Many drivers are concerned about not having control on personal data collection in their vehicles, such as phone call history and contacts. 61% of respondents do not remember authorizing car data use by their vehicle manufacturer or other entities. Consumers should be better informed about connected vehicles, their functions, benefits and limitations.
In terms of pricing and maintenance services, the survey finds that 62% are ready to switch from manufacturer workshops to independent workshops if prices are lower. If services are delivered quicker, 56% are willing to switch from a manufacturer workshop to an independent workshop. Similar responses were found for respondents who would switch from an independent workshop to a manufacturer workshop. Prices, speed of service delivery and availability of remote services would entice drivers to make the switch.
Freedom of choice remains important for drivers. 65% want to be able to choose the telematics provider for their car while 61% want to be able to change the telematics provider during their car’s lifetime. The survey finds that people are willing to share their data depending on what service is being given in return. While many are not willing to pay for all services, car-location services and roadside assistance services are a few examples that consumers would be willing to pay for.
With all of the above in mind, drivers do expect certain outcomes from sector-specific legislation. These expectations include a wider array of services, more innovative services and specific services regarding traffic congestion and road safety.
