If you’ve got a need for speed, you might have to pay a monthly fee for it . . .
Volkswagen just debuted a new subscription plan for its electric cars. They’re making people pay extra to unlock the full amount of horsepower. (???)
It’s only happening in the U.K. for now. No word on when they might try to do it in the U.S. or other countries.
Here’s an example of how it works: Their Volkswagen ID.3 electric car has 228 horsepower. But if you don’t pay the fee, just over $20 a month, you only get to access 201 of that horsepower.
They’re framing it as giving people options. If you drive like a grandma, you might only want 200 horsepower. And if you need more zip, you can pay for it.
They claim it’s “nothing new.” “Historically, many [gas] and diesel vehicles have been offered with engines of the same size, but with the possibility of choosing one with more potency.”
They’re not the first car company that’s tried to gouge customers like this. A few years ago, BMW tried to charge folks in the U.K. to use their heated seats. They ended up nixing it after too many complaints.
VW drivers in the U.K. who want the extra zip will have to pay $22 a month for the privilege, or a yearly fee of around $225.
There’s also the option of paying a one-time fee of $880. Volkswagen says that option keeps it unlocked, even if you sell the car.
(Auto Express / BBC / Electrek)
