Volkswagen transforms European fleet into mobile laboratory: Traffic data will train artificial intelligence

Volkswagen Group is betting on data from European countries to revolutionize road safety in 2026

The automotive industry is undergoing a profound transformation, where software and data are becoming as important as the engine or body. Starting in January 2026, the Volkswagen Group (VW) is taking a decisive step in this direction, expanding an ambitious data collection program to 40 European countries, including Romania.

Digital “eyes” on the roads of Romania

The main objective of the German giant is to optimize driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving functions. Unlike laboratory simulations or prototype tests, the data collected now comes from real traffic situations.

The systems of the group's cars (Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Cupra, Porsche) will transmit vital information such as:

• Images from video cameras that capture the proximity of the vehicle.
• Data from environmental sensors (radar, lidar, ultrasound).
• Driving parameters: speed, steering angle, braking force.
• External conditions: weather, visibility and lighting.

This data transfer is not continuous, but is triggered by critical events, such as the intervention of the emergency braking assistant (Front Assist), a sudden braking by the driver or maneuvers to avoid an obstacle. Interestingly, the data can also include information about other road users, such as pedestrians or cyclists, in order to teach the AI ​​systems how to prevent accidents with them.

Privacy: Consent is “key”

In an era of digital surveillance, Volkswagen emphasizes that customer consent is mandatory. The program complies with GDPR regulations, and car owners have full control:

1. Optional activation: Consent can be given via the user profile in the car’s infotainment system.
2. Immediate revocation: The user can choose to stop the data transmission at any time without further explanation.
3. Direct benefits: Improvements resulting from the analysis of these “crisis situations” will be returned to customers in the form of software updates (OTA - Over-the-Air), making cars safer over time.

VW Group sales top in Romania (2025-2026)

The Volkswagen Group remains one of the pillars of the Romanian automotive market, with brands such as Skoda and Volkswagen consistently occupying places in the top of preferences. Here are the most popular new models and their indicative prices (including VAT):

Conclusion: The expansion of this program in Romania confirms the importance of our market in Volkswagen's digital ecosystem. As the infrastructure and car fleet modernize, cars become not only means of transportation, but also smart sensors that contribute to collective road safety.