Connected Vehicle Data: Unlocking New Value Streams for Utilities and OEMs in the EV Ecosystem

The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is not just about cleaner transportation—it’s about data. As EVs become increasingly connected, they generate a wealth of real-time information that is transforming how utilities, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and technology partners operate, collaborate, and create value. Connected vehicle data is rapidly emerging as the linchpin of the digital EV ecosystem, enabling new business models, optimizing infrastructure, and delivering personalized experiences for drivers. Yet, this transformation also brings challenges around data privacy, interoperability, and the need for cross-industry collaboration.

The Expanding Role of Connected Vehicle Data

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 tailored experiences. For utilities and OEMs, 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. This data-driven approach ensures that charging infrastructure grows in lockstep with actual usage, improving reliability and customer satisfaction.

Enabling 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. Utilities and OEMs can collaborate to offer bundled energy and mobility services, providing EV drivers with cost savings and a seamless charging experience.

Supporting 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.

Personalizing 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.

Cross-Industry Collaboration: The Key to Unlocking Value

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.

Navigating Data Privacy, Interoperability, and Security

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.

Delivering Seamless, Value-Added Experiences for EV Drivers

Ultimately, the promise of connected vehicle data in the EV ecosystem lies in its ability to deliver tangible value to drivers and the broader energy system. By leveraging data, OEMs and utilities 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.
Support smarter grid management, more efficient infrastructure deployment, and the creation of innovative pricing and loyalty programs.

The Road Ahead: Ecosystem Thinking for Sustainable Growth

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.

Ready to unlock the value of connected vehicle data? Publicis Sapient partners with utilities, OEMs, and technology leaders to design and deliver the digital, data-driven solutions that power the future of mobility. Connect with our experts to start your journey.