[croon]

> and even safety-related over-the-air updates.

I update the GPS data in my decade old VW once a year using an SD-card. Not having always-on internet is certainly no reason you can't get updates.

[goguy]

There is no good reason they can't provide updates without scooping up all your data.

As a minimum they could keep vin/installed software version number and date times. It would be an acceptable compromise.

[deelowe]

There are many good reasons. Must have to do with profit and rent seeking.

[0xedd]

I can think of a few million, if not billion, off the top of my head.