What does it mean to exert unauthorized control over a motor vehicle?

Exerting unauthorized control over a motor vehicle typically involves taking possession of a vehicle without the owner’s consent and with the intention of using it unlawfully. The correct answer emphasizes the aspect of intent—specifically, the intention to commit a felony—which underscores the serious nature of the act. This means that the action is not merely borrowing or using the vehicle temporarily; rather, it involves a deliberate decision to utilize the vehicle for illegal purposes. This definition aligns with the legal interpretation of car theft or grand theft auto, where both taking the vehicle without permission and having unlawful intent are key elements of the crime.

The other choices present scenarios that may not necessarily involve unlawful intent or control. For example, borrowing a vehicle without permission might imply less intent to commit a crime, and renting without identification may involve legal but irresponsible actions rather than criminal intent. Using a vehicle for an emergency purpose could potentially involve justifiable reasons for using someone else's vehicle, which does not align with the notion of unauthorized control. Hence, the selected answer reflects the most accurate understanding of illegal control over a motor vehicle.