VOLKSWAGEN (VW) recently released an image of Project Trinity, an electric sedan that CEO Ralf Brandstatter called “our software dream car.”

The concept is designed in anticipation of advanced self-driving capabilities, long-range electric propulsion systems and fast charging battery tech. According to VW, they will start production on this car in 2026, as part of a vehicle lineup with fewer variants and where everything is standardized.

It means that instead of building multiple versions of the same car with varying capabilities, they’ll build one version with everything included, but only unlockable “on demand” — and likely for a fee. Tesla has already shown something like this with driver assist tech that’s available to unlock after the car is purchased, while BMW has tried selling features with a subscription model and is looking at expanding. VW’s version could extend to features like AWD, or unlocking GTI-level aero and handling packages on a short-term or even per-mile basis.(SD-Agencies)