'Information-collecting monstrosities' — Are Chinese connected cars really worse for your privacy?

In recent years, Chinese SUVs like Jaecoo, Omoda, Great Wall Motor, and BYD have gained popularity among UK buyers due to their affordable luxury. However, these vehicles raise concerns about privacy due to the data-harvesting capabilities embedded in their advanced technology. This trend is not unique to Chinese manufacturers, as many global brands have been collecting personal data for years.

In fact, a 2023 study found that all 25 car brands, from BMW to Tesla, failed to meet consumer privacy standards, collecting sensitive information such as facial expressions, weight, health status, and location history.

The issue extends beyond just Chinese brands, with Western companies also engaging in intrusive data collection. For instance, Land Rover logs the last-parked location, while Kia collects voice data for voice control. Even more concerning is Ford's patent for software that reads drivers' lips using in-cabin cameras and sensors, further blurring the line between driver safety and surveillance.

The data collected through connected cars comes from a variety of sources, including sensors, microphones, in-cabin cameras, and companion apps. This data is then sent to cloud servers and combined with information from dealership systems and other sources. While some companies claim not to create or sell inference profiles, others, like Kia, explicitly state that they do so.

The potential consequences of this data collection are far-reaching, as it can reveal personal details about a person's emotional stability, political beliefs, health status, and financial risk. This information can then be used to build a digital persona for commercial purposes. Experts warn that the abstract nature of telematics data often prevents individuals from fully understanding the real-world risks, as it can paint a detailed picture of their daily lives through aggregated GPS coordinates and other data points.