Mercedes [in the UK] spies on drivers by secretly installing tracking devices in cars and passing information to bailiffs
The secret sensors, fitted to all new and used motors sold by the firm’s dealers, pinpoint the vehicle’s exact location.
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But it admits sharing car owner information and vehicle location details with third-party bailiffs and recovery firms who repossess the cars.
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Mercedes’ rivals including BMW, Jaguar Land Rover and Volkswagen have all said they do not carry out similar tracking.
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Mercedes customers who buy cars through the official financial arm give their permission when signing lengthy terms and conditions — which often go unread. Mercedes says a clause about “location sensors” is in bold print just above a customer’s signature on finance contracts.
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But it admits sharing car owner information and vehicle location details with third-party bailiffs and recovery firms who repossess the cars.
...
Mercedes’ rivals including BMW, Jaguar Land Rover and Volkswagen have all said they do not carry out similar tracking.
...
Mercedes customers who buy cars through the official financial arm give their permission when signing lengthy terms and conditions — which often go unread. Mercedes says a clause about “location sensors” is in bold print just above a customer’s signature on finance contracts.
