A buddy ordered a Chevy LTZ 2500HD and was told upfront the heated seats & steering wheel won't work when received.Very curious as to why you think that way. I see your answer above but will a few less features make enough of a difference considering it still uses enough of a HTF item?
Brother in-law just bought a new GMC AT4 2500HD off the lot and the heated seats & wheel don't work.(The module to be installed later...)
If manufacturers are delivering their top models without functioning options, I could see how a model without a ton of tech would be an advantage.
The question is will people buy it? We're getting pretty spoiled in modern vehicles.