How to Monetize Car Data – 3 Strategies for Companies and 28 Practical Use Cases

Data is the currency of the 21st century. Those who have access to it can manage it wisely and draw constructive conclusions to get ahead and outperform the competition. The business model based on their monetization is no longer the domain strictly reserved for the Silicon Valley giants. Also, companies whose products and services are not directly related to data trading are trying their hand in this field. The automotive industry is one of the market sectors where data monetization will soon bring the greatest benefits. It is estimated that by 2030 it will be as much as $ 450-750 billion on a global scale.

In this article, you will learn:

What are the 4 megatrends to increase the amount of data from cars.

* Which technologies will enable better data downloading.

* Who can earn money from vehicle data monetization.

* What are the three main data monetization strategies.

* 28 practical use cases of how you can generate revenue.

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The increase in revenues on this account is not only due to the electronics and sensors that are installed inside the vehicles. Social and cultural changes will also contribute to the increase in the amount of generated data – for example, the need to reduce city traffic and the search for ways of traveling alternative to vehicles with combustion engines.

Among the megatrends that will contribute to a greater inflow of data for monetization, the following are usually mentioned:

• electrification;
• connectivity;
• diverse mobility / shared mobility;
• and autonomous driving.

The trends that will transform the way we travel and use vehicles today are opportunities not only for OEMs (original equipment manufacturers), but also for insurance companies, fleet managers, toll providers, fuel retailers, and companies dealing with parking or traffic.

All these industries are increasingly joined by technologies that not only help to collect data but also to process it. The flow of information between these market sectors will enable the development of effective methods of obtaining data and creating new services that can be monetized.

In particular, it will be enabled due to the 8 developing technologies:

1. Big data analytics

2. High-speed data towers (5G)

3. Software platforms

4. Data cloud

5. High definition maps

6. High-resolution positioning (GPS)

7. Smart road infrastructure

8. V2X communication

Due to the extensive technological infrastructure, the amount of data that can be obtained from the vehicle will increase immeasurably with today’s possibilities. It is estimated that in the near future, up to 10,000+ points from which data can be collected will be accessible in the car.

Understand the drivers and their needs

/„The challenge for industry players is that data will not be car-centric, but customer-centric.” – European premium OEM”/

While technology plays a key role in converting data into real currency, we should bear in mind one thing. In fact, the data is generated not by the vehicle, but by its user. It is the user’s attitude towards technology, privacy, and convenience that determines the success of obtaining information. Without their consent and willingness, there is no effective data monetization strategy.

As the examples of Google or Facebook show, the use of data without users’ knowledge sooner or later ends in lawsuits, reluctance, and consumers turning their backs on the brand.

So how can you get users’ consent to share data?

The answer is simple – although putting it into practice may be a real challenge – offer something in return. If you give something to the driver, they will share the data you care about the most.

Among the universal benefits on which you can build a strategy for obtaining data from drivers, the following are especially noteworthy:

• time savings,
• greater overall comfort and driving comfort,
• increased level of safety,
• reduction of vehicle operating costs,
• entertainment or increasing driving experience.

Research shows that drivers are much more willing to share data about the external environment of the vehicle – e.g., driving conditions, the technical condition of the vehicle, or even its location. However, they are not so eager to share data from their vehicle interior, e.g., the possibility of recording conversations. However, the percentage of such approvals increases dramatically, up to 60%, when drivers are offered more safety in return.

Younger customers and frequent travelers (who spend over 20 hours in their cars weekly) are also more open to this type of service – which results from their attitude to life, as well as personal needs. Differences in attitudes to privacy can also be shown in different markets (e.g., in Asia, Germany, or the USA). This is due to cultural differences, data regulations, and the technological advancement of a given region.

Regardless of where the company operates, in order to consider effective data monetization, you need to answer three key questions:

1. WHO drives a given car?
2. HOW do they behave behind the wheel?
3. WHERE do they drive?

Understanding the consumer’s needs and the way they travel is the starting point for developing an effective data monetization strategy. Only then can we choose the right tools and technologies enabling us to turn data into profits.

Monetizing car data – 28 practical use cases

Each case of data collection in a vehicle can potentially be turned into a benefit. It may concern one of the three areas:

1. Generating revenue
2. Reducing costs
3. Increasing safety and security

Data monetization strategies can be based on only one of these assumptions or be a mix of activities from different areas. Let’s have a look at the specific methods that are currently developing in the automotive market.

1. Generating revenue

Generating revenue from data in the automotive industry is frequently done by selling new functionalities and services. Usually (but not always), they are directly linked to the vehicle and are aimed at the driver (direct monetization). 

Due to a large number of sensors and the fact that the car of the future will perfectly know and read the driver’s needs, this type of vehicle is also perfect for being fitted with tailored advertising. 

The third way of generating income can also be selling data to advertising companies that will use it to promote third-party brands. Obviously, this model causes the most distrust and reservations among the majority of consumers.

Direct monetization

1. Over-the-air-software add-ons / OTA

Do you want your car’s operating system to be faster and more efficient? Or maybe you need to have it repaired, but you are too busy to visit your car dealer? Updating your software in the cloud will let you avoid stress and save you time. Analysts estimate that by 2022 automotive companies will have made about 100 million such vehicle updates annually.

2. Networked parking service

Being able to enter the car park without paying the traditional fee, and a suggestion where you can find a free space. Who wouldn’t take advantage of such a convenience in congested cities, for a small surcharge or by providing the registration number of their own vehicle? The system of smart car parks connected to the network offers such possibilities.

3. Tracking/theft protection service

A car is often a valuable and indispensable resource for company activities (but also for private individuals). Vehicle theft does not only involve a financial loss but often logistics-related issues, too. Users increasingly often agree to share their location and modern tracking systems that will easily locate the vehicle in the event of theft.

4. Vehicle usage monitoring and scoring

Who wouldn’t want to pay less for vehicle insurance or its rental? Systems monitoring drivers’ behavior while driving and evaluating them in line with the regulations may soon become the standard of services offered by insurers and rental companies.

5. Connected navigation service

Real-time road traffic updates, current fuel prices at nearby filling stations, possible parking options, access to repair stations or car wash – all that by means of voice commands and questions we ask our GPS while driving. For such convenience, most drivers will be delighted to share their data.

6. Onboard delivery of mobility-related content /services

7. Onboard platform to purchase non-driving related goods

Just as the phone is no longer used merely for telephone calls, the car increasingly often plays additional roles. Listening to music from the Internet or streaming videos by passengers (or by the driver, when the car is parked) is completely normal today. Soon we can expect that shopping from the driver’s seat will also become the order of the day. And not necessarily only shopping for goods related to mobility and the car.

8. Usage-based tolling and taxation

Each road user and road infrastructure is subject to the same tax obligations and fees. Meanwhile, modern technology allows us to monitor how we use the infrastructure and how often we do it. There is an extensive group of drivers who could save a lot by sharing this type of data with road management.

9. „Gamified” / social like driving experience

“Tell me and I will forget, show me and I may remember; involve me and I will understand.” – Confucius said over 2,500 years ago, and nothing has changed since. Having fun, competing with friends, and having personal experience are still the strongest incentives for us to take new action. It also relates to our purchases.

10. Fleet management solution

Managing a fleet of vehicles, each in different locations, driven by a different driver, and carrying a different load is a real challenge. Unless the entire fleet is managed using one central platform that collects data from individual vehicles. Then everything is close at hand.

11. In-car hot-spot

Mobile internet onboard? Not only the driver who can update necessary data and stay in touch with the base (in the case of a fleet vehicle) will benefit, but also the passengers. In-car hot-spot is an ideal product for companies from the telecom industry, travel companies, insurers, and fleets.

Tailored advertising

12. Predictive maintenance

Advertising is not scared of any medium and, like a chameleon, it adjusts to the environment in which it appears. A car that, just like a smartphone, gets new functions every now and then, becomes an ideal place for such activities. Especially those messages that help drivers predict possible breakdowns and remind them about the upcoming service or oil change are highly appreciated.

13. Targeted advertisements and promotions

Apart from targeting advertisements in terms of the needs related to the vehicle operation, advertisers can also select ads based on who and where is driving the car, the driver’s age, gender, or interests. Of course, the accuracy of targeting depends on the amount of data that can be obtained from the vehicle user. Drivers can therefore see displayed ads based on their current and past behavior and linked to the businesses and places featured on their route.

Selling data

Gathering vehicle data and selling it to third parties? We only mention this point because, being experts, we feel it is our duty. As the previous and subsequent use cases show, there are many more creative ways, approved by drivers, that will allow them to benefit from car data.

2. Reducing costs

Data is a mine of information. Companies from the automotive industry can earn money not only by selling new products but also by enhancing existing solutions, reducing R&D costs, or offering cheaper services to users. Potentially, not only producers but also end users can benefit from data acquisition.

R&D and material costs reduction

14. Warranty costs reduction

Every year, companies from the automotive industry spend huge amounts of money on user warranty services. Data on how the vehicle is used, or what breaks down the most often can not only improve the service process itself and increase consumer satisfaction but also help make real savings in companies. Based on the analyzed information, it is possible to more precisely select the scope of warranty and its duration and even adjust it to specific users.

15. Traffic data based retail footprint and stock level optimization

By using advanced geospatial analysis, traditional stores and malls are capable of locating heavy-traffic areas. Wherever the number of vehicles and the frequency of trips increases, there is a potential for greater sales. It is also easier to plan and adjust the stock, expecting potential consumer interest. Companies from the automotive industry, which have data from vehicles, are a natural business partner for this submarket.

16. Data feedback based R&D optimization

Regardless of the sector in which we operate, the R&D department cannot exist without market feedback, looking for new trends and insights. In the automotive industry, continuous product optimization is the key to success. Data provided by managers is a constant source of inspiration and optimization that can contribute to a company’s market position. Of course, provided that they are properly analyzed and used for new products.

Customers cost reduction

17. Usage-based insurance PAYD / PHYD

Switching from an insurance based on accident history to insurance based on date, time, and actual driving style? The advantages for the insurer do not need any explanation. For drivers who travel safely on the road and have nothing to be ashamed of, pay as you drive (PAYD) or pay how you drive (PHYD) insurance certainly has unquestionable benefits and is worth sacrificing a bit of privacy.

18. Driving style suggestions

Do you want to know how to drive more economically? How to adjust the speed to the road conditions or shorten the travel time? Systems installed in connected cars will be happy to help you with this. All you have to do is share information about how you are getting on behind the wheel.

19. E-hailing

24/7 availability, the possibility to order a ride from a location where there are no traditional taxis, the ease of paying via a mobile application. There are many advantages to using the services of brands such as Uber or Lyft. Although no one heard about these companies a few years ago, today they set trends related to our mobility. All due to the skillful use of data and the creation of a business model based on the driver and passenger benefit.

20. Carpooling

Fuel economy and pro-ecological trends increasingly contribute to our conscious use of vehicles. Instead of driving alone, we share travel costs increasingly often and invite other people to travel with us. The creation of applications and infrastructure based on consumer data, which will facilitate driver and passengers recognition, is an ideal model for companies from the automotive industry.

21. P2P car sharing

Your car is parked in the garage because you cycle daily or use public transport? Rent it to other drivers via the peer-to-peer platform and earn money. Of course, the company behind the mentioned application that connects both parties will also earn a few bobs on it, as that’s what its business model is all about.

22. Trucks platooning

Connecting vehicles into convoys has existed as long as traffic. However, today’s technology and data flow offer additional benefits. Trucks platooning is the creation of a convoy using communication technology and automated driving assistance systems. In such a convoy, one of the cars is the “leader”, and the rest adapt to its actions, requiring no or little action from the drivers. Advantages for companies organizing a convoy? Lower Co2 emissions (up to 16% from the trailing vehicles and by up to 8% from the lead vehicle), better road safety, saving drivers time, and getting tasks done faster.

Improved customer satisfaction

23. Early recall detection and software updates

The data received from the vehicle enables early detection of faults and prevents unnecessary problems on the road, and even more – it allows to repair them remotely in the OTA (over-the-air) model. Thanks to such amenities, the driver does not have to download the required software or visit their authorized dealer in person to repair the vehicle.

3. Increasing safety and security

24. Driver’s condition monitoring service

Drowsiness and fatigue are some of the most common factors contributing to road accidents. Thanks to driver monitoring systems in the form of infrared sensors and a camera integrated into the steering wheel, the vehicle can warn the driver in advance and recognize symptoms that could lead to an accident or falling asleep at the wheel. This is one of the amenities that drivers most often agree on when it comes to sharing vehicle data.

25. Improved road/infrastructure maintenance and design

Analyzing data from vehicles can help both the drivers themselves and the road service. For instance, when cars regularly skid at some point – which is detected by ESP / ABS systems, road workers can introduce certain speed limits or improve the road profile. This type of data is also useful in planning road repairs when the renovation needs to be planned during less traffic volume.

26. Breakdown call service

Tyre pressure monitoring, battery and engine condition, fuel level, and electricity drops in the vehicle. Monitoring such data can prevent more than one accident, and should it happen, it helps the driver overcome the obstacles much faster. When roadside assistance knows where the driver is and what exactly happened to the car, it can react much faster or instruct the driver how to fix the problem.

27. Emergency call service

Data from connected cars can save not only our holidays but also our lives. When every second counts and the driver or other road users cannot call an ambulance or fire brigade, the connected car will do it for them. Thanks to the emergency call service option, the vehicle sends information about the location of the vehicle and its status to the appropriate services.

28. Road laws monitoring on enforcement

Data collected from vehicles – especially on a large scale – can tell a lot about the way a given group drives or about the compliance with the rules of the road. Providing data from your own vehicle to the traffic law monitoring services can improve our habits, reduce the number of road hogs and drunk drivers, and help adjust the law to new conditions.

Crucial factors in data monetization

The data stream generated by vehicles will increase year by year. In order to be well prepared for the monetization of this information and not to miss the opportunities for the automotive industry for additional sources of income, it is crucial to take care of several key issues.

• First of all: find a steadfast IT partner with experience in the field, who will supplement the competencies of the OEM with cloud solutions, AI, and building platforms based on data monitoring and analysis.
• Secondly: constantly create and test car products and services based on real needs and amenities for customers – which is inherently related to the next point.
• Thirdly: create an open policy for the management of customers’ data that rules out trading in confidential information or unclear or misleading regulations of data use.

Only the development of a business strategy based on all these assumptions can bring real benefits and help stand out from the competitors.

As you can see, this is not a simple and quick process to implement, as many entities are involved in it, and various interest groups may clash. So, is the game worth the candle? The answer is in the stories of telephone companies that used to believe that the telephone should only be used for making calls, and it did not have to be smart.

Whether we like it or not, vehicles are changing right before our very eyes and are increasingly often used not only for getting from A to B. People who do not understand it and do not see the opportunities facing the automotive industry may soon share the fate of the mobile giants from over a dozen years ago.