Drago
Legendary Member
- Location
- Suburban Poshshire
You will all have doubtless heard how on some models BMW charge an annual subscription in order to be able to access certain functions.
Yes, you read that right. You'll potentially buy a car with satnav, heated seats, etc, all fully fitted and physically present, but BMW won't activate them and let you actuqlly use them unless you give them more money every year.
Tesla have also been doing this in some countries.
And now Skoda have announced they're joining the club.
Imagine buying a toaster, DVD player, or kettle but not being able to operate it without paying extra money every month or year to Morphy Richards or Toshiba? Well, that's how it's going with cars. Fortunately there is a healthy aftermarket for people hacking BMW cars for a fee so owners can access and use the equipment that they already own, and I hope they quickly do the same with the Sloda products. They'll be at it with food soon - You'll be able to buy the food, but won't get the key to be able to open the packet unless you pay a monthly bribe.
For many reasons I think it unlikely I will buy a new, or indeed any, car ever again. I'm actually quite glad if that's how their customers are going to be bent over in the future.
Yes, you read that right. You'll potentially buy a car with satnav, heated seats, etc, all fully fitted and physically present, but BMW won't activate them and let you actuqlly use them unless you give them more money every year.
Tesla have also been doing this in some countries.
And now Skoda have announced they're joining the club.
Imagine buying a toaster, DVD player, or kettle but not being able to operate it without paying extra money every month or year to Morphy Richards or Toshiba? Well, that's how it's going with cars. Fortunately there is a healthy aftermarket for people hacking BMW cars for a fee so owners can access and use the equipment that they already own, and I hope they quickly do the same with the Sloda products. They'll be at it with food soon - You'll be able to buy the food, but won't get the key to be able to open the packet unless you pay a monthly bribe.
For many reasons I think it unlikely I will buy a new, or indeed any, car ever again. I'm actually quite glad if that's how their customers are going to be bent over in the future.
