Stupid 'option' items on new cars

[Cyder]

TVR1 said:

ChasW said:

One feature that I think is a no brainer but some manufacturers don't even offer it as an option is a heated front screen. I have it on my Mini and it's a godsend. I think you can spec it on Fords. Must be something to with replacement windscreen costs that puts them off. It's far more effective on a frosty morning than using the blower from the heater.

Nope. Ford own the patent and licensing rights. The only other manufacturer to offer HFS are the former PAG group companies. Ford declined to licence HFS to anyone other than BMW/Mini. And only then because they payed silly money for it. £650 on a mini? That'll be £349 for a winter pack at Volvo. (Heated seats/front screen and mirrors)

Sorry, not true anymore. As I said above, the patent has now expired so anyone can use it.

[Ozzie Osmond]

Typical patent life is 20 years.

[AW111]

Dapster said:

You're not trying! Audi Exclusive Seatbelts £1,635

My favourite isn't the £4,500 Exclusive paint or event the £14,750 Exclusive Leather on the A8, but a set of Exclusive car mats. £2,145. That's 2 grand for a set of mats. 2 thousand pounds.

When marketing decided to use the word "Exclusive" for a range of options, what sort of buyer do you think they had in mind?

"This option is exclusively for wkers who think they are special"

I am not saying that everyone who specs those options is a wker, but it appears Audi does.

[chopper602]

alistairolsen said:

Most manufacturers pre-wire their cars for additional features. Some require extra hardware, like heated seats, but why is cruise control ever an option now? Why specifically tool an additional indicator stalk and then not fit it to some models for the sake of a couple of momentary contact switches

MrsTheWifes XF has keyless starting (as long as you have the key on your and press the button), but not keyless entry, so you still have to unlock it from the remote, which to me is a bit pointless (it's an option apparently)!
My Polestar, leave key in pocket, put hand into handle and it unlocks and similar when leaving the car. The Polestar is also relevant, as there is no option list for it. All you can choose is the colour, which in the UK is limited to White, Blue or Black.

Edited by chopper602 on Monday 30th November 12:46

[Howard-]

alistairolsen said:

cooking spec

Can someone please explain this term to me? I've never quite understood it.

[swisstoni]

Howard- said:

alistairolsen said:

cooking spec

Can someone please explain this term to me? I've never quite understood it.

Basic. As in Cooking Apple.
Skol is cooking lager

[mph1977]

AW111 said:

When marketing decided to use the word "Exclusive" for a range of options, what sort of buyer do you think they had in mind?

"This option is exclusively for wkers who think they are special"

I am not saying that everyone who specs those options is a wker, but it appears Audi does.

Audi, like BMW and Mercedes are brands for the arseperational ...

[Rovinghawk]

Howard- said:

alistairolsen said:

cooking spec

Can someone please explain this term to me? I've never quite understood it.

Think in terms of cooking wine rather than drinking wine.

[Jimmy Recard]

swisstoni said:

Basic. As in Cooking Apple.
Skol is cooking lager

I thought Skol was lager for EDL/BNP types?

[Howard-]

Rovinghawk said:

Think in terms of cooking wine rather than drinking wine.

Now I get it. Thanks!

[Lester H]

Anyone ever replaced a "genuine" Peugeot scent diffuser? No doubt Monsieur would be fortified by cooking wine while doing so and exclaiming " mon Dieu! Merde!"

Edited by Lester H on Wednesday 2nd December 20:42