Ford Promises It Will ‘Never’ Sell Your Driving Data to Brokers. Days Earlier, GM Paid 36 States $220 Million Over Allegations It Did

North Carolina will receive $7.66 million from a $220 million settlement between General Motors and a 36-state coalition over data privacy allegations. The settlement concerns GM's OnStar Smart Driver program, which collected driving data from 2016 to 2024 without proper consent. GM must now obtain explicit consent and improve privacy protections.

GM recalled 80,095 vehicles, including Cadillac and Chevrolet EVs, due to a software defect causing temporary brake failure and 12,715 vans for a potential steering issue. The recalls follow 24 complaints and 20 minor crashes related to the brake problem, with no reported incidents for the steering defect. GM will fix the issues for free, with notifications sent to owners in December.

GM is recalling 67,380 Chevy Blazer EVs and Cadillac Lyriqs, Vistiqs, and Celestiqs due to a software defect causing temporary brake loss. The issue affects specific models and trims, with 20 minor accidents reported. GM will fix the problem via an over-the-air update or dealer visit. Affected vehicles include various model years of Cadillac Lyriqs, Vistiqs, Celestiqs, and Chevy Blazer EVs.

General Motors was fined $220 million for selling driver data collected via its Smart Driver program, according to Reuters. Ford launched a 'Privacy Promise' website allowing drivers to select what data is collected, with options to limit data sharing. GM's settlement requires obtaining express consent before collecting or sharing data. Ford's Chief Privacy Officer noted that users can opt out to create a 'quasi-’80s mode' car, though some features may be lost.

General Motors plans to introduce hybrid versions of the Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, and Buick Enclave, according to Reuters. The models will be produced at the Lansing Delta Township factory in Michigan. GM has invested $1.25 billion in the site and redirected $500 million in federal funding. The company aims to offer a broader electrified lineup, including both self-charging and plug-in hybrids, without additional engineering and capital expenditure.

General Motors agreed to pay $220 million to settle a multistate investigation into allegations that it collected and sold identifiable driving and location information from its OnStar Smart Driver program between 2016 and 2024. The settlement does not include consumer restitution, and GM did not admit wrongdoing. According to court documents, GM earned revenue through agreements with data brokers and other automakers, including Verisk, Honda, and Hyundai.