Offering vehicle features as a subscription service is a rather controversial practice in the automotive industry. Mercedes Benz is among the automakers experimenting with it.
Earlier this year, the German automaker began offering a rear-wheel drive feature as an annual subscription to one of its vehicles in China. Also, Mercedes-Benz wants to take it to the next level by offering performance upgrades as a subscription service.
The one we’re talking about today is known as the Acceleration Boost, an option we want to offer buyers of Mercedes-Benz EQE and EQS sedans and SUVs as a $1,200 (plus tax) annual subscription. This feature increases engine torque and maximum engine power. vehiclewith which you can get more benefits.
The automaker claims the adjustment brings a noticeable improvement in 0-100 km/h acceleration from 0.8 to 1.0 seconds, depending on the EV model. However, this service will remain the only one in the US market for the time being, as in Europe Mercedes has no right to offer it.
Europe says no to automotive features like subscription services at Mercedes
Well, according to a report by Top Gear NL (Netherlands), we are facing legal challenges as to why it is not possible to include it on our continent. Nonetheless, It is currently unknown what laws block these types of subscription services.
Of course, this is rather strange when, for example, an annual subscription to the heated seats feature in BMW is available. Automakers can also upgrade a car’s power with free over-the-air upgrades, just like Polestar or Tesla do in Europe.
This functionality, which, as we said, is actually available in the US, allows electric car growth up to 100 horsepower. The problem comes when many users complain that the 100 horsepower extra motor is unusable, or worse, included in the price when they don’t intend to use it.
Simply put, we buy a car with a powertrain intentionally limited from the factory, with all its potential hidden behind paywalls.
Knowing all this, it’s time to wait and see how Mercedes adapts to European regulations. Of course, it’s unclear why Mercedes can’t offer such a service in Europe, and it’s unknown if and when it will be available.
Source: Computer Hoy
