That’s the key finding from a survey by the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA), whose members operate a combined fleet in the UK of 4.7 million cars, vans and trucks.
Almost 300 members and fleet managers were surveyed on issues relating to data access, cost and sharing.
Seventy-nine per cent are concerned that vehicle manufacturers would restrict access to telematics data to further their own business goals; 89% believe that manufacturers should allow them to install third party telematics devices, provided that they meet agreed security standards.
With the introduction of the new General Data Protection Regulation less than a year away, more than half have a clear strategy for data collection and use of driver and vehicle data, and understand its responsibilities.
“Connected vehicle data is rapidly becoming the new currency of the fleet sector,” says BVRLA chief executive Gerry Keaney.
“Our responsibility is clear. The BVRLA will play a lead role in helping the fleet sector work with government and the wider automotive supply chain to ensure that all parties share data in an open, secure and fair way.”
A separate questionnaire was sent to drivers to gauge their views on data sharing. An overwhelming majority are happy about data sharing for fault diagnosis or prevention (95%), alerting a breakdown company (93%) or helping vehicle manufacturers to identify safety and warranty issues with parts (82%).
However, 44% were ‘not comfortable’ about sharing data on their driving behaviour and performance.