News 8 www.aftermarketonline.net DECEMBER/JANUARY 2025 Drivers ‘prioritise data security and trust’ in garages UK drivers are increasingly prioritising data security when selecting garages for servicing and repairs as vehicles become more connected and data-driven, according to a new study. Analysis by secure digital identity solutions provider Digidentity highlights growing concern among motorists about the personal data stored in their vehicles, highlighting demand for greater transparency and tighter regulations in the automotive industry. According to the study, released on November 26, two-thirds of new cars sold in the UK are now connected vehicles. Digidentity said this means the integration of digital features is driving the need for improved data governance and security. According to the survey* of a representative sample of 2,000 UK motorists, nearly 80% of respondents believed stronger regulations were needed to govern access to their vehicle’s data. Lacked control Additionally, 67% felt that garages do not communicate openly enough about data security practices, with the figure rising to 70% among women. Meanwhile, 64% felt they lacked control over how their vehicle’s data was protected, while 60% worried about potential data exploitation. These concerns are significantly influencing consumer behaviour, with 79% of respondents saying they now select garages based on trust as their top priority, Digidentity said. Among EV owners, this figure rose to 85%, indicating that early adopters of new automotive technology placed even higher importance on data security. Despite growing concerns over data privacy, price remains a deciding factor for more than half of UK Slough-based Phoenix Crankshafts has secured an investment boost of more than £500,000, the company has announced. A Phoenix spokesperson told Aftermarket the investment in the company’s team, equipment and software is from the private investor that acquired Phoenix in 2020, although details of the deal remain undisclosed. The fresh financial injection has been invested in cutting-edge equipment and software to broaden capability and create crankshafts that are harder wearing, stronger and more effectively counterweighted, Phoenix said. Tom Coady, workshop manager at Phoenix, said: “With significant financial investment and a growing team, we’re in a better position than ever to help customers preserve and develop their vehicle.” £500,000 investment booster for Phoenix Crankshafts drivers when choosing their garage, Digidentity said. Peace of mind However, for owners of vehicles priced over £55,000, half now prioritise garages that demonstrate clear data security protocols, indicating a shift in preference towards mechanics that offer both value and peace of mind when it comes to data protection. Marcel Wendt (pictured), chief technology officer and founder of Digidentity, said: “Modern vehicles are rapidly becoming mobile data hubs, storing everything from location and driving habits to personal preferences.” Wendt said the survey was an opportunity for the automotive industry to build trust with customers by prioritising data protection alongside traditional factors like price and service quality. Meanwhile, a Digidentity spokesperson told Aftermarket the company has been named as the ‘Trust Centre’ for SERMI both in Europe and the UK to provide and manage digital certificates for garages and manufacturers. This will ensure that data is shared securely through authenticated security tokens and digital credentials. SERMI, already launched in Europe, will be launching in the UK in the coming months. * The study was conducted by Censuswide using a sample of 2014 drivers from the UK aged over 17 between September 16-18 2024. BORG Automotive Reman has joined a European research project consortium that the company said will help to shape the future of remanufacturing. The ‘rEUman’ project, backed by a consortium of BORG Automotive Reman and 19 other partners, has secured €6.7 million (£5.6 million) under the EU’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme. The project aims to strengthen the future readiness and competitiveness of the European remanufacturing industry. BORG Automotive Reman and CPI, the remanufacturing branches of the BORG Automotive Group, receive €341,531 of the total funding to support their involvement, which includes activities in the area of electromobility, such as electric motors, inverters and e-turbos. BORG joins R&D project
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