PREVIEW

Volkswagen Puts Horsepower Behind a Subscription. Volkswagen is following the industry trend of locking features behind subscriptions. In the UK, the electric ID.3 Pro and Pro S are limited to 201 horsepower unless owners pay for an upgrade to reach the full 228-hp. Options include a one-month free trial, £16.50 per month, £165 per year, or a one-time payment of £649. Critics argue that this paywall feels unnecessary on a car that costs around £50,000, especially for lease drivers who may not benefit from long-term ownership. While BMW’s similar attempts, like charging for heated seats, failed, Mercedes continues offering paid acceleration boosts. VW isn’t doing this in the US yet, but it highlights a shift in the auto industry where software now controls access to features and recurring revenue streams are becoming a priority for automakers.
Instructions: THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT