ACEA outlines CO2, data protection approach

At the IAA show in Frankfurt yesterday, the president of the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) outlined the automotive industry’s approach to tackling CO2 from road transport, focusing on the potential of intelligent transport systems (ITS). Carlos Ghosn also presented the EU industry’s new statement on the protection of personal data.

Mr Ghosn’s statements marked the launch of a new study by ERTICO on the extent to which ITS systems can reduce CO2 emissions from cars. According to the study, in-vehicle eco-navigation systems (dynamic navigation tools that use real-time data to reduce fuel) hold the potential to reduce emissions by five to ten per cent. Eco-driving systems – which recognise driving behaviour and provide the driver with on-trip advice and post-trip feedback – can bring down emissions by five to 20 per cent.

Regarding infrastructure, the two highest-potential measures are traffic signal coordination and parking guidance. Giving drivers real-time advice on traffic signals and guidance to find a parking space could produce a further 10 per cent savings in CO2 emissions for equipped vehicles in the areas where these systems are deployed.

Currently new vehicles (less than one year old) represent only about five per cent of the total EU car fleet, and the average age of cars is 9.7 years and rising. “With this in mind, the study’s findings make a clear case for a faster renewal of the fleet, so that we can bring more vehicles with the latest technologies to the street faster,” Mr Ghosn stated. “But connected vehicles and faster fleet renewal will not be enough. ACEA is therefore also calling on policy makers to invest more in appropriate infrastructure improvements.”

As ITS systems rely on the collection, use and process of data from different sources, including from the vehicle itself, they also raise the challenge of data protection. Recognising the concerns around this subject, this morning ACEA’s Board adopted a statement setting out five principles of data protection to which the industry will adhere.

These principles include transparency, customer choice, ‘privacy by design’, data security and proportionate use of data. “Data protection is an issue automakers take very seriously, as we are committed to providing our customers with a high level of protection and maintaining their trust,” explained Ghosn. “This is essential if ITS and the connected car are to fulfil their potential to contribute towards societal goals such as facilitating traffic management, reducing fuel consumption and bringing down CO2 emissions.”