Tesla vehicles under scrutiny for privacy concerns over integrated camera surveillance in Europe

A security or surveillance system designed to protect vehicles from vandalism and theft is currently integrated into around 100,000 Tesla, Polestar, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, and Chinese electric vehicles from brands such as Zeekr and NIO. These vehicles are equipped with built-in cameras that record the surroundings while in motion. This camera technology is expected to become increasingly common.

While the cameras can be beneficial in various scenarios, they also present significant privacy risks. According to authorities, capturing images of passersby constitutes a form of surveillance that collects a large amount of personal data. Vehicle owners may unknowingly engage in illegal surveillance due to the challenges in avoiding the capture of sensitive data.

As this practice becomes more prevalent, there is an increasing risk that individuals will be monitored against their will while walking in public spaces. The privacy implications of vehicle cameras have drawn attention in several European countries. For instance, after a complaint, Tesla was compelled to limit its surveillance last year, now only activating the recording when someone approaches the vehicle, with indicators such as illuminated lights and in-car notifications that recording is taking place. Other manufacturers have similar systems, but authorities argue this remains inadequate.

Authorities emphasize the difficulty for individuals to be aware of their surveillance, thus not complying with GDPR regulations. Simultaneously, law enforcement increasingly requests footage from these cameras as evidence in criminal investigations, with insurers also considering their importance for claims.

Vehicle camera systems must adhere to specific information requirements, including the purpose of the surveillance, contact details of the recording party, rights of individuals being recorded, storage locations, and retention periods.