Biplab Das 
Europe’s top court ruled on Thursday that Swedish truck manufacturer Scania must provide repair shops and parts distributors with car data, including vehicle identification numbers. This landmark decision could reshape the dynamics between automakers and service providers in the connected car market, estimated to reach €250 billion-€400 billion by 2030.
Legal battle origins
Scania faced legal action from a German motor vehicle parts trade association, alleging the withholding of vehicle identification numbers violated EU privacy rules. The German court sought guidance from the EU Court of Justice (CJEU), which affirmed the trade body’s position.
Mandatory access to repair information
EU judges mandated that car manufacturers, including Scania, must grant access to all vehicle repair and maintenance information, emphasizing the importance of transparency in the automotive sector.
Data ownership challenges
The dispute underscores the ambiguity surrounding data ownership in EU law. The lack of clear regulations has fueled conflicts between car manufacturers aiming to monetize data-driven services and service providers advocating for fair access.
Connected car market potential
The tug-of-war over vehicle data highlights the immense potential of the connected car market. Projections indicate substantial growth to €250 billion-€400 billion ($267 billion-$427 billion) by 2030, driving demand for comprehensive data access.
European commission’s role
The European Commission had intended to establish data-sharing rules in the second quarter of this year but has yet to present a legislative proposal. The decision by the CJEU puts additional pressure on regulatory bodies to define guidelines for data accessibility.
Legal case reference
The case, identified as C-319/22 Gesamtverband Autoteile-Handel (Access to information on vehicles), sets a precedent for future legal battles over data access in the automotive industry.
The EU court’s ruling compels Scania and other automakers to share vital vehicle data, signaling a potential shift in the landscape of data accessibility and ownership in the European automotive sector.
