Complying with the EU Data Act: A Guide for Truck Manufacturers

Big changes are coming for truck manufacturers with the EU Data Act. Handling vehicle data just got a bit more complex, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right approach, you can stay compliant and even unlock new opportunities for your business.

Here’s what you need to know.

Who counts as a ‘User’ and why it matters

The EU Data Act defines a "user" as any natural or legal person with rights to the vehicle - whether they own, rent, or hold temporary rights to use a connected product. For trucks, this could include the fleet operator or even drivers who have acquired contractual rights.

With both primary users and third parties involved, it’s important to have a system in place that allows them to access the data without compromising each other’s rights. For instance, a fleet operator, as a primary user, may require real-time operational insights, while a leasing company, as a third party, may need access to financial and maintenance data, if authorized by the user.

Manufacturers must ensure that data access is clearly defined, ensuring that primary users get direct access to their data, while third-party access is limited to specific needs authorized by users.

Keeping driver data private

While the Data Act focuses on providing access to vehicle data, any personal data related to drivers - such as driving behavior or location - falls under GDPR. This means manufacturers have to be careful when handling and sharing driver information, especially with third parties. Ensuring that this data is properly safeguarded and only shared in accordance with the GDPR principles is key to staying compliant with privacy regulations.

Working with third-party providers

Manufacturers need to ensure data is available to third-party service providers like repair shops or spare parts distributors. The Data Act requires them to share this information on fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory (FRAND) terms.

For example, a repair shop might need access to diagnostic data to fix a vehicle, but access to real-time operational data, such as detailed vehicle performance metrics or specific route information, may be more restricted. Fleet operators have a legitimate interest in protecting this data as it can be crucial for their business operations and may contain trade secrets or sensitive commercial information.

How can you benefit from the EU Data Act??

Complying with the EU Data Act presents manufacturers with valuable opportunities beyond simply meeting regulations. For example, providing fleet operators with access to vehicle data strengthens customer relationships by helping them optimize fleet efficiency.?

Manufacturers can also use this data to create value-added services and generate new revenue. Additionally, performance data helps manufacturers improve product designs?and quality and address issues faster, resulting in better products and more satisfied customers.

Integrating compliance into business models

The Data Act requires manufacturers to share data, but that doesn’t mean giving away control of your intellectual property. Confidentiality agreements and secure data-sharing mechanisms can help protect your business interests.

Truck manufacturers need to implement “data access by design,” building vehicles and digital systems that allow for secure, structured, and real-time data access. At the same time, they must ensure they are protecting sensitive operational data, trade secrets, and competitive advantages.?

Ready to meet the new data regulations head-on?

We’ve got you covered.

We offer tailored consulting services to help you prepare for the EU Data Act. And if you need secure systems to manage user and third-party data access, we will build solutions designed to fit your exact needs. Our expertise extends across the automotive industry, so you can be confident you're receiving comprehensive support for your business.

Let’s talk about how we can help you navigate regulatory changes and optimize your data management strategy.

Contact our Sales Specialist, Karolina Wójcik , to get started today.