Popular car brand announces power supply monthly subscription for R390
Could car subscriptions be the way forward?
Volkswagen is an iconic and much-loved brand.
READ: Volkswagen stops production of popular car after 24 years
From Polos to Tiguans, South Africans love a VW.
According to BBC News, the German car-making giant has introduced a subscription service for UK customers of their electric cars.
READ: Drivers licence card drama: Here's what it means for you
Volkswagen is home to a range of electric cars called the ID. range.
Our ID. models mark the start of a new era of electric mobility; intelligent, innovative and sustainable. And above all, for everyone. Because a new idea can only make a difference when everyone can be part of it.
The subscription will only be eligible for customers who buy a car from the ID.3 range.
READ: Volkswagen stops production of popular car after 24 years
The subscription is for the "optional power upgrade," which allows customers to unlock the full power of the vehicle's engine.
The cost will be £16.50 (close to R395) per month or £165 (close to R3950) annually.
READ: Former Miss Universe contestant, 30, dies in tragic freak accident
There is also the option of a lifetime subscription for £649 (around R15,460), which, according to Auto Express, is for the car, not the owner. This means that if the vehicle is sold, the upgrade would remain.
The firm said that this feature will offer the customers a choice.
A VW spokesperson told the BBC that the option to purchase more power is nothing new.
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.
They also mentioned that the power upgrade will allow customers to opt for a "sportier" driving experience anytime.
READ: Get your Premier League predictions and join our FPL
This feature could prove controversial for some customers, as it has in the past. They might be displeased that they have to pay to access features that, in some cases, are already in their car.
Other vehicle manufacturers like BMW and Mercedes have also introduced subscription services.
BMW have offered subscription add-ons such as heated seats, while Mercedes offered an online service in the US that allowed customers to pay to make electric cars accelerate quicker.
Tune in to 'The Drive with Rob & Roz', on weekdays from 16:00 – 19:00. Stream the show live here or download our mobile app here.
Listen to Jacaranda FM:
- 94.2
- Jacaranda FM App
- http://jacarandafm.com
- DStv 858/ OpenView 602
Follow us on social media:
Image: iStock