Car thieves destroy undrivable cars and just sell parts and scrap metals.

The initial cost they pay for the car is the cost associated with stealing it, nowhere near the actual value of the car. It doesn't matter how little is recovered relative to the total cost of the car, so long that their losses are negative or at least minimal.

> Has a Tesla or Rivian ever been stolen without the owner leaving their phone or keycard in the car?

"tesla relay attack"

I mean, it's probably possible, but it's well above the "just have to outrun the bear" bar: Towing it and/or just buying a car for yourself.

Tesla? They aren't exactly known for their security. [0]

[0] https://www.wired.com/story/tesla-ultra-wideband-radio-relay...