"As a car owner, I like to be able to shop around for the best possible prices to have my vehicle maintained or repaired. Unfortunately, Canada’s outdated data and privacy regulations restrict my ability to do this, impeding my ability to choose where to shop and hurting small businesses in the process. I am asking you to review the current guidelines around access to vehicle data, and ensure the principles of data access, control and a level playing field, outlined in your government’s Digital Charter Implementation Act, are applied to the auto sector.

As you know, cars today gather enormous amounts of data about the vehicle and its driver, including important maintenance and repair information. This valuable data helps drivers make smarter decisions about how to repair and maintain their cars. Currently, this data only goes to the automakers, giving them full control over how it is used and who to share it with.

Without direct access to and control of my car’s data, I will face higher maintenance and repair costs, limiting my options of where to get my vehicle serviced. I and other vehicle owners deserve the right to direct where my vehicle data goes.

Your government has recognized the importance of data control and consent, transparency, portability and a level playing field through your Digital Charter. As your government works to institute these principles across industries, I would like you to ensure they extend to vehicle data.

Thank you for your time."