Car Manufacturers Share Driver Data with Tech Giants

Researchers at Northeastern University and Consumer Reports investigated how car manufacturers share data from their vehicles. The study involved testing 21 cars and 30 companion apps, with surprising results.

The researchers found that 28 of the 30 apps sent data to at least one outside advertising or analytics company. Seven apps shared personally identifiable information, including a driver's name, vehicle identification number (VIN), or precise location.

Several automakers noted that many of the apps and services they provide are 'opt-in,' meaning drivers must agree to share their data. However, researchers found that some popular features will not function without opting in, limiting the connected services available.

The study found that Amazon, Google, Meta, and Microsoft were among the companies that received driver data. The Cadillac Lyriq, Chevrolet Blazer, Lucid Air, Tesla Model 3, and Tesla Cybertruck sent data to the largest number of outside advertising and analytics companies.