Connected Vehicle Data in the Electric Vehicle (EV) Ecosystem: Opportunities and Challenges for OEMs and Utilities

The rapid rise of electric vehicles (EVs) is transforming the automotive landscape, ushering in a new era where data-driven innovation is central to delivering value for drivers, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), utilities, and a growing ecosystem of partners. At the heart of this transformation is connected vehicle data—real-time information generated by EVs that is unlocking new business models, optimizing infrastructure, and redefining the customer experience. Yet, as the EV ecosystem matures, it also brings unique challenges around data privacy, interoperability, and cross-industry collaboration.

Modern EVs are equipped with advanced telematics, sensors, and software that continuously collect data on battery health, charging patterns, driving behavior, location, and more. This data is foundational to the shift from traditional vehicle ownership to a broader mobility ecosystem, where vehicles serve as platforms for digital services and personalized experiences. For OEMs and utilities, the ability to harness and share this data is opening up a wealth of opportunities:

• Optimizing Charging Infrastructure: Real-time data on battery state-of-charge, location, and driver intent enables utilities and charging network operators to predict demand, optimize charger placement, and reduce grid congestion. By analyzing aggregated vehicle data, stakeholders can identify charging hotspots, forecast peak usage times, and plan infrastructure investments more effectively.
• Dynamic Pricing and Energy Management: Connected vehicle data allows for the implementation of dynamic pricing models, where electricity rates for charging can fluctuate based on grid demand, time of day, or renewable energy availability. This not only incentivizes off-peak charging but also supports grid stability and the integration of renewable energy sources. OEMs and utilities can collaborate to offer bundled energy and mobility services, providing EV drivers with cost savings and a seamless charging experience.
• Peer-to-Peer Charging Networks: The emergence of peer-to-peer (P2P) charging platforms—where private individuals offer access to their home chargers—addresses gaps in public infrastructure, especially in remote or underserved areas. By leveraging connected vehicle data, these networks can match drivers with available chargers, facilitate payments, and ensure a reliable, user-friendly experience. Such models are already being piloted in regions where traditional charging networks are sparse, expanding access and accelerating EV adoption.
• Personalized Driver Experiences: OEMs are using connected data to deliver tailored services that enhance convenience, safety, and satisfaction. Examples include proactive maintenance alerts based on battery diagnostics, route planning that incorporates real-time charging station availability, and over-the-air (OTA) software updates that unlock new features or improve battery performance. These capabilities not only differentiate brands but also foster long-term loyalty and engagement.

The complexity of the EV ecosystem demands close collaboration between OEMs, utilities, charging network operators, and technology providers. Strategic partnerships are emerging as a key enabler of innovation:

• Joint Infrastructure Initiatives: Automakers are partnering with utilities and third-party providers to build fast-charging networks, ensuring coverage across urban and rural areas. These collaborations leverage vehicle data to inform site selection, optimize charger utilization, and streamline the customer journey—from locating a charger to payment and authentication.
• Integrated Energy and Mobility Services: By sharing data, OEMs and utilities can co-create bundled offerings that combine vehicle charging, home energy management, and renewable energy integration. For example, drivers might receive incentives for charging during periods of high solar or wind generation, or benefit from subscription models that include both vehicle and home charging at preferential rates.
• Data Marketplaces and Ecosystem Expansion: Some OEMs are exploring data marketplace models, licensing anonymized, aggregated vehicle data to utilities, city planners, and research institutions. While this approach presents challenges around data standardization and privacy, it offers a pathway to monetize data at scale and support broader societal goals, such as traffic optimization and sustainable urban planning.

As the value of connected vehicle data grows, so too do concerns around privacy, security, and interoperability. EVs generate vast amounts of sensitive information, making robust data governance essential:

• Transparency and Consent: EV drivers expect clear communication about what data is collected, how it is used, and who it is shared with. OEMs must implement transparent data governance, obtain explicit consent, and provide customers with control over their data preferences. Building trust is paramount to encouraging data sharing and participation in new services.
• Standardization and Interoperability: The lack of standardized data formats and interfaces can hinder ecosystem development and limit the scalability of cross-industry solutions. Industry-wide collaboration on standards—such as common APIs and data schemas—is critical to enabling seamless integration between vehicles, charging infrastructure, and utility systems.
• Cybersecurity and Compliance: As vehicles become increasingly connected, the risk of cyber threats grows. OEMs and utilities must invest in advanced security measures, comply with evolving regulations, and ensure the resilience of their data infrastructure.

Ultimately, the promise of connected vehicle data in the EV ecosystem lies in its ability to deliver tangible value to drivers. By leveraging data, OEMs can:

• Offer real-time guidance to the nearest compatible charging station, factoring in battery status, route, and station availability.
• Enable predictive maintenance, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns and enhancing safety.
• Unlock new features and performance enhancements through OTA updates, keeping vehicles current and competitive.
• Personalize in-vehicle experiences, from infotainment to climate control, based on driver preferences and routines.

For utilities and charging network operators, access to vehicle data enables smarter grid management, more efficient infrastructure deployment, and the creation of innovative pricing and loyalty programs.

The next decade will be pivotal for OEMs, utilities, and their partners as they navigate the transition from product-centric to data-driven, service-oriented business models. Those who act boldly—investing in digital platforms, forging strategic partnerships, and prioritizing data governance—will shape the future of mobility and energy.

Connected vehicle data is not just a technological asset; it is the foundation for a new era of automotive and energy value creation. By embracing ecosystem thinking and putting the customer at the center, OEMs and utilities can unlock new revenue streams, enhance sustainability, and deliver the seamless, personalized experiences that today’s—and tomorrow’s—EV drivers expect.

Relevant Links

• How Connected Vehicles’ Data Will Help Car Owners
• How Connected Vehicles’ Data Will Help Car Owners
• Les Données des Véhicules Connectés : Un Levier de Croissance pour l’Industrie Automobile Européenne (Europe)
• Personalization in Automotive: Leveraging Connected Vehicle Data for Next-Gen Customer Experiences
• El Ecosistema de Vehículos Conectados: Oportunidades y Desafíos para América Latina (LATAM)