A patent doesn't ensure implementation, but automakers have long memories and are always hungry for margin. A few, slightly cynical hypotheticals: 1. Ford off

A patent doesn't ensure implementation, but automakers have long memories and are always hungry for margin. A few, slightly cynical hypotheticals: 1. Ford offers a "rental trim" package enabling advertising with a kickback to the rental company and a lowered upfront cost. 2. They collect the data anyway to support alternative revenue streams, even if they never manifest. Seen that before. 3. They use it in their commercial offerings instead, like school buses and airport shuttles.