National Highways explores how connected vehicle data could improve road safety and maintenance, while identifying major barriers such as trust, common standards and customer participation.
Modern vehicles already generate vast amounts of data. The challenge is how drivers, vehicle makers and highway authorities agree on sharing and using that data effectively.
Data with clear benefits for drivers
The focus at a recent National Highways roundtable at Interchange 2026 was shifting connected vehicle services from isolated trials to practical, visible benefits for motorists.
According to National Highways, drivers in developed markets rarely pay for connected technologies. While people often share data through mobile apps, there is more reluctance to share vehicle data.
Participants agreed that success depends on a clear value exchange. Drivers want to know what data is collected, why, and how it improves their journey.
Making hazard warnings count
Euro NCAP’s 2026 safety protocols add scores for vehicles on their ability to share hazard warnings. This creates a stronger incentive for manufacturers to equip vehicles to exchange safety data, not just detect hazards with on-board sensors.
A connected system can share information about hazards encountered by one vehicle with others nearby, if standards and permissions are in place.
Beyond vehicles: real-time network information
For highway authorities, data from connected fleets could provide up-to-date information on road conditions. However, the usefulness depends on data quality, consistency and reliability.
Participants highlighted the need for a common language or 'data dictionary' to ensure consistent collection and interpretation across drivers, manufacturers and authorities.
Learning from the Nordics and looking at potholes
Nordic countries were cited for using vehicle data in winter maintenance operations, improving understanding of changing road conditions.
Potholes were discussed as a persistent UK infrastructure issue where connected data might help identify or assess defects. However, no new schemes were announced and further development is needed.
Policy frameworks and practical challenges
The Department for Transport’s Connected Vehicle Services Framework aims to provide a consistent approach as connected vehicle work moves towards funding and delivery.
On-the-ground challenges remain. Warnings need to be accurate and timely to influence road user behaviour. For example, temporary A180 contraflow warnings are only useful if current and reliable.
Collaboration is crucial. Highway teams must understand data reliability, manufacturers must ensure compatibility, and drivers need confidence that sharing data will bring tangible benefits.
From pilots to routine use
Interchange 2026 did not deliver a definitive model for connected roads. Instead, it highlighted that common standards, public trust and incentives are unfinished work.
The potential uses of connected vehicle data are practical: supporting safety warnings, aiding winter maintenance and identifying network defects.
The sector needs to develop dependable services that improve journeys, moving beyond pilots to everyday use, and avoid relying on motorists sharing data on trust alone.
