In an era where data privacy is a growing concern, many electric vehicle (EV) owners are questioning whether they can disable tracking in their connected cars. A recent discussion highlights the dilemma facing Rivian drivers: while it is technically possible to disable the vehicle's modem to stop data collection, doing so also disables critical safety features.
The trade-off is stark. Disconnecting the modem prevents the car from sending telemetry data to the manufacturer, but it also cuts off access to over-the-air updates, emergency services, and real-time diagnostics. As one observer noted, "Disconnecting your car's modem means losing safety features — the real cost of privacy."
For Rivian owners, this raises important questions about the balance between privacy and functionality in modern EVs. While the option to disable tracking exists, it comes with significant consequences that may outweigh the privacy benefits for most drivers. As the automotive industry becomes increasingly connected, this issue is likely to spark further debate.