OPINION by Laurianne Krid, Director General at Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) Region I
Access to data has been a constant battle for FIA Region I over the past 16 years. From efforts to extend the BER – a key piece of competition law – to the adoption of technical legislation like Euro 7, the European Commission has increasingly recognised the need for sector-specific regulation to safeguard the aftermarket. However, the rise of car connectivity now threatens this delicate equilibrium. In Europe, cars have an average lifespan of 12.3 years and often represent a major investment – second only to the family home. The aftermarket plays a crucial role in keeping these vehicles safe and environmentally compliant throughout their long lifetimes.