MEP Bruno Tobback (S&D) has asked the European Commission whether Volkswagen Group's decision to block free, real-time access to electric vehicle charging data violates the EU Data Act, in a written parliamentary question submitted on 16 June 2026.
Tobback's question targets Volkswagen's move, effective 27 May 2026, which prevents owners from retrieving recharging data from their electric cars in real time and free of charge. Volkswagen cites cybersecurity as the reason for blocking the data, but offers the same data for a fee. According to Tobback, the limited, delayed data provided via Volkswagen's website is not an equivalent alternative.
The MEP argues this practice contradicts the EU Data Act (Regulation 2023/2854), which requires data holders to make data available to users or their chosen third-party service providers easily, securely, free of charge, continuously, and in real time, with the same quality as available to the data holder. Tobback contends that the restriction not only prevents owners from accessing their own data but also hinders development of tools for optimal charging scenarios, efficient use of renewable energy, and electricity grid stability.
whether it is aware of Volkswagen's practice, whether it considers it a breach of the Data Act, and what action it will take to monitor and enforce correct application of the regulation, including addressing potential infringement.
The question, submitted under Rule 144 of Parliament's rules of procedure, now awaits the Commission's response, typically due within six weeks. The reply will signal the Commission's interpretation of the Data Act's real-time data access provisions and its enforcement stance toward automakers.
If the Commission finds Volkswagen in breach, it could set a precedent forcing automakers to provide free, real-time data access, benefiting EV owners and third-party service providers. However, it could impose compliance costs on Volkswagen and other car manufacturers, potentially affecting their business models around data monetisation. The outcome also affects grid operators and renewable energy stakeholders who rely on aggregated charging data for grid stability.