Stronger Protections Needed to Guarantee Consumer Choice with Connected Car Data

AAA Encouraged that Automakers Have Taken Initial Steps to Address Consumer Concerns

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Nov 13, 2014, 03:52 ET

WASHINGTON, Nov. 13, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- AAA's President and COO Marshall Doney issued the following statement today in response to proposed "privacy principles for vehicle technologies and services" developed by the automotive industry.

"AAA is encouraged that automakers are taking a first step to address consumer rights with connected car data, but this agreement falls short of providing consumers the right to control their own information. Today's announcement follows in the footsteps of AAA's Consumer Rights for Car Data, but we remain concerned that industry continues to prevent consumers from having access to a competitive choice of automotive services.

"New cars increasingly collect vast amounts of data that can be used to prevent breakdowns, reduce crashes and help drivers save both time and money. Consumers should benefit from market competition as these new services emerge, and no company should put unfair limits on consumer choice.

"AAA urges automakers to develop a clear framework in concert with industry experts, including consumer representatives like AAA, that guarantees that consumers can share car data with any trusted service provider of their choice. AAA will remain committed to ensuring consumers have real choice and are able to enjoy all the benefits that connected cars have to offer."

AAA has worked with the Federal Trade Commission for more than a year to address consumers issues related to connected cars. AAA has provided specific recommendations to the FTC in response to the commission's request for public comments, which followed up on the agency's "Internet of Things" workshop.

As North America's largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 54 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at AAA.com.

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SOURCE AAA