April 28, 2022 – We’ve reached that stage of capitalism where companies have figured out that they can make more money not by selling you features, but by locking them behind paywalls and collecting rent.
After surveying 217 people who will buy a car within the next two years, Cox Automotive concluded that 75 percent of consumers are completely unwilling to pay monthly or annual fees for features historically included as standard or as options. Only half were aware that car companies are trying to work subscriptions into their business models, and only a fifth had actually tried some form of automotive subscription—less than half of those who had the option.
The vast majority agreed that basic comfort and convenience features—specifically heated and ventilated seats and remote start—should be available as one-time purchases, at 92 and 89 percent respectively.