German carmaker Volkswagen introduced a subscription model for owners of some of their electric vehicles.
Volkswagen owners in the UK who purchase an eligible vehicle in the company’s ID.3 series, could opt to sign up for a subscription to unlock the car’s full horse power.
According to the company, the “optional” add-on will cost new car owners £16.50 per month. However, there are annual and lifetime options that could save drivers a bit of coin.
It is important to note that the lifetime plan will stay with the car if sold, Auto Express reported.
“Historically many petrol and diesel vehicles have been offered with engines of the same size, but with the possibility of choosing one with more potency,” a spokesperson for VW told BBC, adding that the additional cost is “nothing new.”
The company explained that by offering car owners a subscription plan, drivers could change their mind at any time.
“If customers wish to have an even sportier driving experience, they now have an option to do so, within the life of the vehicle, rather than committing from the outset with a higher initial purchase price. The car is presented on the configurator with [201bhp], with the option made very clear to customers,” the spokesperson added.
Volkswagen’s new update was met with criticism as social media users voiced their opinions.
“Can’t wait for the ‘brake subscription.’ $50/month if you want to stop safely,” one person sarcastically wrote on X. “That should be illegal,” another added. “Can’t wait to challenge my friend to a drag race and cancel his subscription right before we go,” a third joked.
