A new study has revealed that as vehicle data concerns grow and cars become more connected and data-driven, UK drivers are increasingly prioritising data security when selecting garages for servicing and repairs.
The survey – just released by the Solera-owned provider of secure digital identity solutions, Digidentity – highlights a growing concern among motorists about the personal data stored in their vehicles, prompting calls for greater transparency and tighter regulations in the automotive industry.
Growing vehicle data concerns
Two-thirds of new cars sold in the UK are now connected vehicles. This means the integration of digital features is driving the need for improved data governance and security. The survey, which sampled 2,000 UK drivers, reflects this, with 79% of respondents believing stronger regulations are needed to govern access to their vehicle’s data.
Additionally, 67% of drivers feel that workshops do not communicate openly enough about data security practices, with the figure rising to 70% among women. This increasing demand for transparency highlights the importance of secure data handling as vehicles store more personal information than ever before.
Marcel Wendt, chief technology officer and founder of Digidentity, said of the growing vehicle data concerns:
“Modern vehicles are rapidly becoming mobile data hubs, storing everything from location and driving habits to personal preferences. Our survey shows that drivers are really concerned about how their data is managed, and they expect garages to be more transparent about their data security measures. This is an opportunity for the automotive industry to build trust with customers by prioritising data protection alongside traditional factors like price and service quality.”
Digidentity’s survey found that 64% of UK drivers feel they lack control over how their vehicle’s data is protected, while 60% worry about potential data exploitation. These concerns are significantly influencing consumer behaviour, with 79% of respondents now selecting servicing and repair centres based on trust as their top priority. Among electric vehicle owners, this figure rises to 85%, indicating that early adopters of new automotive technology place even higher importance on data security.
Adapting to data security
Despite growing concerns over data privacy, price remains a deciding factor for more than half of UK drivers when choosing their workshop. However, for owners of high-value vehicles priced at more than £55,000, half now prioritise garages that demonstrate clear data security protocols, indicating a shift in preference towards workshops that offer both value and peace of mind when it comes to data protection.
To help address issues relating to vehicle data security, SERMI, already launched in Europe, will be launching in the UK in the coming months. This accreditation will ensure that all workshops vehilesecurely access vehicle manufacturers’ data to carry out efficient and safe repairs. Digidentity has been named the Trust Centre for SERMI both in Europe and the UK to provide and manage digital certificates for garages and manufacturers. This will ensure that data is shared securely through authenticated security tokens and digital credentials.
