It actually happened, cars are now being sold with their full horsepower locked behind a paid subscription

“Volkswagen just did something that should make every car owner furious. They’re selling their electric ID3 with its full horsepower locked behind a paid subscription.

The car comes from the factory with 228 horsepower, but if you don’t pay a monthly fee, it’s software limited to just 201. For about $22 a month, they’ll flip a digital switch and unlock the power that was already inside the car that you paid for.

First, BMW tried to sell you a subscription for heated seats. Now VW is selling you a subscription for your engine. Their defense? It gives customers a sportier driving experience without a higher initial purchase price. But this isn’t just about cars. This is the future they want for everything.

Imagine a monthly key to use the high heat setting on your oven or the fast cycle on your dishwasher. You don’t own the product. You’re just renting its best features.”