Who actually controls fleet data?
A dispute between Motive and Highway over ELD API access raises the bigger question: who actually controls fleet data?
A disagreement between US fleet platform Motive and freight identity and fraud-prevention company Highway produced one of the most interesting fleet-technology stories of the month.
Highway's access to authorised Motive customer ELD data was temporarily restricted during a dispute surrounding its API connection.
On 28 August the companies announced that normal access frequency had been restored and that they were discussing an updated agreement.
The immediate problem appears resolved. The larger question isn't.
WHO OWNS THE DATA?
Modern fleets can have dozens of connected systems, and customers increasingly expect those systems to communicate. That means API access and data portability are becoming strategically important. Connected systems now include:
- Telematics.
- Cameras.
- ELDs.
- Maintenance.
- Fuel cards.
- Insurance.
- Compliance.
- Routing.
- Payroll.
- Driver applications.
Sources
This story first appeared in The Fleet Brief Issue 001, published 31 August 2026.