Brands of cars are still very obvious with badging and model names. They could be identical vehicles but people will still use the more expensive version to signal.

Audi, Porsche and Mercedes would like to have a word with you :) Every now and then companies come with different designs than a bar of soap. But it is getting rarer. However, if you think that Tesla is the future, you are right. For me, to spot the differences between Tesla model i need a meter.

Leaving aside whether it is good or not, I think this is the future.

When automated driving takes over, few will want to own a car. Most will rent from various fleets so they can watch a movie, play with their phone/partner/etc while they get from A to B. As usual, there will be good things about it and bad things.