[mrweasel]

The GrapheneOS users are understandably upset, but yes, this doesn't seem like an update targeted at blocking GrapheneOS or /e/OS. It's Volkswagen updating their app and using newer APIs. Technically they are probably doing "the correct" thing in terms of how Google suggests that you develop for the PlayStore API and that blocks alternative operating systems.

It still sucks, but what are they suppose to do, not use the "safer" API and risk getting told that they don't care about security? And for what, pleasing a very small minority of users?

There could be some branding value in targeting more technical users and have them act as brand ambassadors, but for a car I doubt that's worth much.