Following the tech world, the automotive industry is also transitioning to subscription systems. However, this is causing concern for car owners. Recently, Volkswagen has drawn criticism from users with a new app. The company requires a monthly subscription fee to reach the full 228 horsepower of its ID.3 Pro and Pro S models.

Volkswagen is switching to a subscription system

Volkswagen limits vehicles to 201 horsepower for those not subscribed to its subscription service, VW Flex. Users must pay $22 monthly to remove this restriction. Those who wish can also purchase a lifetime subscription for £649.

Because this subscription package is assigned to the vehicle, it is transferred to the new owner in the event of a sale. The company states that the performance upgrade does not affect range and that since the vehicle is factory-certified as 228 horsepower, no additional notification to the insurance company is required.

Comments on car forums and social media indicate user frustration with this “dongle” practice. Some users are exploring ways to bypass this software limitation, but such interventions are not recommended because they could void the vehicle’s warranty.

Volkswagen, however, defends its practice, stating that a similar logic already exists in the automotive world. The company points out that vehicles with the same engine displacement are sold with different horsepower ratings through software modifications. This allows users to purchase the top-of-the-line version at a lower starting price and upgrade performance as needed.

This discussion brings to mind the subscription system BMW introduced a few years ago for features like heated seats, which it was forced to back down after intense backlash. It remains unclear whether Volkswagen will reverse this practice. Software-based car upgrades appear poised to become even more widespread in the coming years.