Ford launches a privacy promise for customer vehicle data

Ford has announced a “privacy promise” ahead of a new generation of connected cars, saying it will keep customers’ vehicle data safe and give them control over what they share. The automaker also launched a website explaining what data it collects, how it uses it, and how customers can change their settings or opt in and out.

Ford chief privacy officer Kristin Jones told TechCrunch that the company wants to communicate its data practices more clearly. She said Ford does not use customer vehicle data for targeted advertising or share information about how customers drive with data brokers. Jones said vehicle health data can provide owners with real-time information about maintenance needs and support research and development for future technologies.

Some features depend on data sharing. Jones said turning off connected services disables features such as real-time navigation and built-in roadside assistance. The privacy effort comes as cars become more connected: the source reports that only 14% of U.S. customers surveyed said they fully understand what data their vehicle collects. It also notes that General Motors faced Federal Trade Commission action and reached a $220 million settlement with 36 states last week over data practices.

Ford’s website is intended to explain the reasons for its data requests and help customers manage their choices, Jones said.