Car keys have gone through an evolution over time, from physical keys to just having to be within a certain distance for the doors to unlock, and even becoming digital. Now, they are facing obsoletion as Tesla phases its key fobs out.
The move to render keys a thing of the past is Tesla’s bid to eliminate waste. This comes after the company found that most of its users preferred to use their smartphones or key cards to unlock their cars instead.
The finding was not a new one, as Tesla had already tried once to stop delivering its cars with keys with its Model 3 and Model Y cars. However, the automaker walked back on its decision and brought them back again.
Now, it seems like the key fobs could be gone for good. The move started on July 1 when newer Model S and Model X cars began being shipped without their keys. Users who do still want the car keys would have to fork out an additional US$175 to get them.
The question remains: Will drivers react the same way users did when Apple removed chargers and earphones from iPhone boxes?