If you are a music fan who came of age in the ‘80s, you may remember a rock ballad that was popular at the time, performed by a hair metal band called Cinderella. While the band may have been crooning about the regret of lost love, the title of the song, “You Don’t Know What You’ve Got, (Till It’s Gone),” is a classic adage that applies here as well.
We’re not here to talk about unrequited love, but there is something vitally important we need to discuss. It’s something we are taking for granted, something roughly two-thirds of the U.S. population isn’t really even aware of. And if we don’t act now, it’s going to change our lives forever and we will rue the day … much like those dudes in Cinderella
Not to sensationalize it, but it’s true. With the launch of the “Your Car. Your Data. Your Choice.” campaign this year, the Auto Care Association and the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association have brought to light some seriously alarming facts that we all need to be aware of.
By 2022, 87% of new vehicles in the U.S. will be equipped with telematics. Telematics enables the real-time transmission of vehicle data – incredible, powerful data that allows for safer driving and more efficient vehicle repair. All good things. However, right now, as consumers, you and I don’t have access to that data or where it goes. For all intents and purposes, only the vehicle manufacturer does, and, they can share that data as they so choose. So, if we don’t speak up about it now, our right to access and direct that data where we, as vehicle owners and consumers, want it to go will slip right out of our hands.
I can’t help but see this situation as rather Orwellian when I step back and think about it. Just consider for a moment the ramifications if we don’t all speak up and make our voices heard. Scary, isn’t it?
If you drive a vehicle and you value your freedom and your privacy, you need to care. According to the “Your Car. Your Data. Your Choice.” campaign, approximately 85% of us rely on a motor vehicle to get to work every day, so, that’s most of us.
Don’t be like Cinderella. Speak up before it’s too late. Take the wheel, take charge and get involved. You won’t regret it.
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