Panel Perspectives: Unlocking Opportunities for India in Connected Mobility

At the EV & AutoTech Innovation Summit, the inaugural panel discussion spotlighted the latest developments in EVs, ADAS, and connected vehicles. Panelists shared thoughtful suggestions and actionable solutions to key industry challenges.

- By Upendra Kasbekar

Q. What's hindering OEMs from effectively monetising connected-vehicle data?

Siji Sunny, CTO at Varroc Connect, highlighted that while modern vehicles generate vast volumes of telematics and sensor data, OEMs still struggle to convert this into meaningful revenue. He observed that users rarely recognise the value of connectivity beyond basic fuel-level or service reminders. “Nobody wants to pay for a service they don’t yet see value in,” Sunny noted, reflecting widespread subscription fatigue. Indeed, most OEMs offer only the first year of free connectivity; post-trial usage dramatically declines due to costs typically ranging from Rs. 25-30 per month. However, Sunny urged the industry to pivot from product-centric to ecosystem-based models. By forging partnerships with fintech, insurance firms, and retailers, OEMs could weave data-driven loyalty schemes such as safe-driving rewards redeemable at fuel or service outlets embedding tangible benefits into user experience. He stressed that anonymised data and standardised protocols are the backbone of scalable solutions. As McKinsey observes, OEMs must shift from isolated pilot projects to full-fledged platforms where data insights flow seamlessly across departments and partners. Critically, Sunny underlined, privacy need not be a barrier: anonymised, aggregate data models potentially secured via blockchain frameworks like V-CARE can enable monetisation without intrusion.