The automotive industry is undergoing a rapid transformation as vehicles evolve from isolated mechanical hardware systems into highly connected platforms. Connected vehicles, equipped with communication technologies, telematics, and advanced software capabilities are reshaping mobility, transportation infrastructure, and consumer experiences. As connectivity becomes a defining feature of next-generation vehicles and they evolve into software-defined, data-driven, and cloud-connected systems, governments and regulatory agencies worldwide are increasingly focused on establishing frameworks that balance innovation with safety, cybersecurity, privacy, and interoperability requirements.
The rapid emergence of IoT and artificial intelligence in vehicles has created new challenges for policymakers. Traditional automotive regulations, centred on mechanical safety and emissions, are no longer sufficient to govern highly connected and software-defined vehicles. Regulations must now address issues such as cross-border data flows, personal data misuse, liability for software failures, remote vehicle access and control, cybersecurity standards, and spectrum allocation for connected mobility services.
This report examines key regulatory trends across different areas, highlighting the evolving policy priorities, regional differences, and future implications for the connected vehicle ecosystem. Understanding these trends is not only essential for ensuring legal compliance, where necessary, but also for identifying opportunities in the rapidly expanding connected mobility market.
In this report, we examine six aspects of connected vehicle regulations:
Data Privacy - Privacy laws or standards that govern how vehicles collect, store, share, and transfer driver and vehicle-generated data.
Data Localisation - Requirements for certain data, often including personal data, to be stored locally and not on servers located overseas.
Cybersecurity - Regulations requiring automakers to deploy cybersecurity systems to protect connected vehicles against hacking.
Software and OTA Updates - Regulations or standards supporting software updates to ensure safety, traceability, and secure deployment of new vehicle functions.
Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) - Regulations supporting secure interoperable V2X communication and deployment of connected roadside infrastructure. Also includes spectrum allocation for V2X.
Autonomous Vehicle Regulations - Regulations or frameworks for testing, approval, liability and safe operation of autonomous vehicles.
