Groups across the industry spectrum have reacted negatively to a new federal rule to standardize minimum requirements for “black boxes” in vehicles. Safety advocates say the rule is inadequate while privacy groups are concerned about “spying” issues; automakers feel the rule is too vague and implementation would be costly.
Background
EDRs collect data in moments before, during, after crash: speed, acceleration, seat belt use, other
EDR data help auto industry, safety researchers study how, why accidents occur, how to prevent
Most vehicles have EDRs–Toyota installs in all vehicles, GM, Ford nearly all, Chrysler over half
Only 10 states have laws governing data recorders