Data Regulation Reshapes European Automotive Aftermarket

The European automotive aftermarket is undergoing a transformation driven by digitalization, sustainability, and evolving regulatory frameworks. In this context, the 17th CLEPA Aftermarket Conference, held on March 18–19 in Brussels, addressed the implementation of the Data Act and its implications for data access across the sector.

Regulatory context and sector cooperation
CLEPA, representing automotive suppliers at the European level, acts as a coordination platform between industry stakeholders, regulators, and technology providers. SERNAUTO, representing the Spanish automotive supplier sector, contributes a national industrial perspective within this framework.

This cooperation responds to the increasing reliance on data generated by connected vehicles for the development of aftermarket services.

The event gathered more than 200 participants, including representatives from the European Commission, to examine challenges related to establishing an open and competitive data market within the mobility ecosystem.

Data access and technical challenges
A central focus was the implementation of the Data Act as a framework for regulating access to and use of industrial data. The Connected Vehicle Field Test (CVFT) 5.0, presented by Caruso, highlighted technical limitations in data availability.

Although EU guidelines define which data should be shared, significant differences remain among vehicle manufacturers in terms of data volume, format, and access frequency. The lack of standardized real-time data limits interoperability and constrains the development of connected vehicle applications.

In addition, inconsistencies in pricing models and access conditions introduce operational uncertainty for digital service providers.

Implementation and regulatory framework
The Data Act establishes principles for data sharing, but its practical implementation varies due to differing interpretations by manufacturers. This results in a fragmented environment where compliance is not uniform.

Participants emphasized the need to expand regulatory guidance to ensure fair access conditions, reduce competitive dependencies, and support investment in data-driven solutions.

Competition in the aftermarket
Data access is directly linked to competition in the aftermarket. The MVBER regulation, governing vehicle distribution and repair, remains a key instrument but faces limitations in addressing digital business models.

Legal experts indicated that the framework requires updates to reflect emerging technologies such as data platforms and connected services, with a review horizon beyond 2028.

Applications and use cases
Structured access to vehicle data enables:

These use cases depend on real-time data availability, standardized interfaces, and transparent access conditions.

Market impact
Progress toward a clearer regulatory environment is critical for market stability. A lack of harmonization in data access may constrain innovation and affect the competitiveness of the European automotive sector.

The Data Act provides an initial regulatory foundation, but its further development will be essential to establish a functional, interoperable, and economically viable data ecosystem in the automotive aftermarket.

Edited by Maria Brueva, Induportals editor – adapted by AI.

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